https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/comedy-slab--3070989
They get together every week to discuss a chosen comedy show, their love of comedy and to share their experiences of the programmes they have worked on and the people they have met and interviewed.

Join them on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

We're @ComedySlab on Facebook & Twitter]]>enComedyCopyright Shane O'Connorhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/32c6697aac62e64f92c2556e1352e127.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/comedy-slab--3070989Tue, 06 May 2025 12:14:24 +0000Shane O'ConnorShane O'Connormail@shaneoconnor.netAdrian Lacey & Shane O'Connor have more than 30 years of TV and Radio broadcasting experience in the UK.  They get together every week to discuss a chosen comedy show, their love of comedy and to share their experiences of the programmes they have...
They get together every week to discuss a chosen comedy show, their love of comedy and to share their experiences of the programmes they have worked on and the people they have met and interviewed.

Join them on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

We're @ComedySlab on Facebook & Twitter]]>trueepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/215-lookwell--51383699
Lookwell was a television pilot written and produced by Conan O'Brien and Robert Smigel, the latter of whom would become a primary creative voice for O'Brien's late night show.

It starred Adam West. Despite being a "personal favorite" of NBC chairman Brandon Tartikoff (who had left that position by the time the pilot aired and was replaced by Warren Littlefield), the pilot was not picked up as a series.

It was broadcast on NBC on July 28, 1991, in a summer weekend timeslot reserved for burning off pilots which the network had passed on and has since become a cult classic.

It stars Adam West as a washed-up TV action hero—who at the peak of his career was ceremonially deputized by local law enforcement and falsely believes he can solve crimes in real life. His student Jason (played by Todd Field) becomes his sidekick.

Written by Conan O'Brien & Robert Smigel
Produced by Lorne Michaels
Directed by E. W. Swackhamer
A BGP / Broadway Video Production.
Lookwell is available here: https://bit.ly/3xEJqfL

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51383699Tue, 27 Sep 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Lookwell (Pilot) Lookwell was a television pilot written and produced by Conan O'Brien and Robert Smigel, the latter of whom would become a primary creative voice for O'Brien's late night show. It starred Adam West. Despite...
Lookwell was a television pilot written and produced by Conan O'Brien and Robert Smigel, the latter of whom would become a primary creative voice for O'Brien's late night show.

It starred Adam West. Despite being a "personal favorite" of NBC chairman Brandon Tartikoff (who had left that position by the time the pilot aired and was replaced by Warren Littlefield), the pilot was not picked up as a series.

It was broadcast on NBC on July 28, 1991, in a summer weekend timeslot reserved for burning off pilots which the network had passed on and has since become a cult classic.

It stars Adam West as a washed-up TV action hero—who at the peak of his career was ceremonially deputized by local law enforcement and falsely believes he can solve crimes in real life. His student Jason (played by Todd Field) becomes his sidekick.

Written by Conan O'Brien & Robert Smigel
Produced by Lorne Michaels
Directed by E. W. Swackhamer
A BGP / Broadway Video Production.
Lookwell is available here: https://bit.ly/3xEJqfL

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2752falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/214-not-going-out--51318774
Not Going Out is a light-hearted, fast-paced mainstream sitcom based around the life of a man un-burdened by ambition or drive. Lee deflects criticism and bad news with his trademark wit and one-liners but deep down he is looking for love, a steady job and a flat he can call his own.

By series 7, the will-they-won't-they tension between Lee and Lucy reach new highs, with Lee eventually proposing to Lucy.

In series 8 we pick up the couple's story seven years later.

The pair now live in a comfortable semi-detached home in Walton-on-Thames with their three kids: Charlie, and twins Benji and Molly but how has layabout Lee survived these dramatic life-changes?

Created by Lee Mack
Produced by Alex Hardcastle, Nick Wood, Charlie Hanson, Jamie Rix, Richard Allen-Turner, Lee Mack, Jon Thoday, Sally Debonnaire and more
Directed by Alex Hardcastle and Nick Wood
An Avalon / Arlo Production for the BBC.
Not Going Out is available here: https://bbc.in/2QsvzT2

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51318774Tue, 20 Sep 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Not Going Out (Series 12 Episode 5) Not Going Out is a light-hearted, fast-paced mainstream sitcom based around the life of a man un-burdened by ambition or drive. Lee deflects criticism and bad news with his trademark wit and...
Not Going Out is a light-hearted, fast-paced mainstream sitcom based around the life of a man un-burdened by ambition or drive. Lee deflects criticism and bad news with his trademark wit and one-liners but deep down he is looking for love, a steady job and a flat he can call his own.

By series 7, the will-they-won't-they tension between Lee and Lucy reach new highs, with Lee eventually proposing to Lucy.

In series 8 we pick up the couple's story seven years later.

The pair now live in a comfortable semi-detached home in Walton-on-Thames with their three kids: Charlie, and twins Benji and Molly but how has layabout Lee survived these dramatic life-changes?

Created by Lee Mack
Produced by Alex Hardcastle, Nick Wood, Charlie Hanson, Jamie Rix, Richard Allen-Turner, Lee Mack, Jon Thoday, Sally Debonnaire and more
Directed by Alex Hardcastle and Nick Wood
An Avalon / Arlo Production for the BBC.
Not Going Out is available here: https://bbc.in/2QsvzT2

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2642falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/213-bob-s-burgers--51241703
The show features the Belcher family. Bob, his wife Linda, and their children Tina, Gene, and Louise.

The family runs a burger restaurant on Ocean Avenue in an unnamed seaside community (informally known as "Seymour's Bay" among the show's writing staff).

Bob's Burgers is located in a green two-story building which features an apartment on the second floor where the Belcher family lives. The restaurant is sandwiched between two other commercial buildings, one of which houses "It's Your Funeral Home and Crematorium". As a running gag, the other building is shown in the opening credits to be a new business each week, often with names which are elaborate puns.

Created by Loren Bouchard
Produced by Bernard Derriman
A Willo Production.
Bob’s Burgers is available here: https://bit.ly/3L2debI

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51241703Tue, 13 Sep 2022 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Bob’s Burgers (Series 12 Episode 1) The show features the Belcher family. Bob, his wife Linda, and their children Tina, Gene, and Louise. The family runs a burger restaurant on Ocean Avenue in an unnamed seaside community...
The show features the Belcher family. Bob, his wife Linda, and their children Tina, Gene, and Louise.

The family runs a burger restaurant on Ocean Avenue in an unnamed seaside community (informally known as "Seymour's Bay" among the show's writing staff).

Bob's Burgers is located in a green two-story building which features an apartment on the second floor where the Belcher family lives. The restaurant is sandwiched between two other commercial buildings, one of which houses "It's Your Funeral Home and Crematorium". As a running gag, the other building is shown in the opening credits to be a new business each week, often with names which are elaborate puns.

Created by Loren Bouchard
Produced by Bernard Derriman
A Willo Production.
Bob’s Burgers is available here: https://bit.ly/3L2debI

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2743falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/212-bristow--51108828
Bristow is a buying clerk (18th in line for Chief Buyer) working for the Chester-Perry organisation (the company's boss, Sir Reginald Chester-Perry, is never seen), who dreaming of grander things. Hoping the world is listening, he gives his opinions on life to anyone around, and if no one is around, is quite happy talking to himself.

His work colleagues include his friend Jones (although he claims to be 18th in line for Chief Buyer), Miss Purdy the tea lady, and fearsome boss Fudge.

Written by Frank Dickens
Produced by Neil Cargill
Directed by Neil Cargill
A BBC Production.
Bristow is available here: https://amzn.to/3zZwi59

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51108828Tue, 06 Sep 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Bristow (Series 2 Episode 1) Bristow is a buying clerk (18th in line for Chief Buyer) working for the Chester-Perry organisation (the company's boss, Sir Reginald Chester-Perry, is never seen), who dreaming of grander things....
Bristow is a buying clerk (18th in line for Chief Buyer) working for the Chester-Perry organisation (the company's boss, Sir Reginald Chester-Perry, is never seen), who dreaming of grander things. Hoping the world is listening, he gives his opinions on life to anyone around, and if no one is around, is quite happy talking to himself.

His work colleagues include his friend Jones (although he claims to be 18th in line for Chief Buyer), Miss Purdy the tea lady, and fearsome boss Fudge.

Written by Frank Dickens
Produced by Neil Cargill
Directed by Neil Cargill
A BBC Production.
Bristow is available here: https://amzn.to/3zZwi59

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2725falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/211-age-of-outrage--50976360
A pioneer of virtual production in sketch comedy and the most popular and successful TV comedy show (of 2020) featuring a sketch based in a bakers' shop.

Providing fodder for internet trolls since February 2020. With Miriam 'two bread rolls please' Isaac, Geraint Rhys 'too many characters' Edwards, Zak 'thinking' Ghazi-Torbati and Mali 'sourdough' Tudno-Jones.

Featuring a special appearance by 'Godfather of Gunge' Dave Benson-Phillips.

Written by Kate Reid, Zak Ghazi-Torbati, Dan Thomas, Sarah Breese, Berwyn Jackson, Mostyn Phillips, Beth Granville & Daniel Hooper
Produced by Phillip Moss and Paul Forde
Directed by Phillip Moss
A Small & Clever Production for BBC Wales.
Age Of Outrage is available here: https://bbc.in/3wczCsD
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50976360Tue, 23 Aug 2022 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Age Of Outrage (Series 1 Episode 1) A pioneer of virtual production in sketch comedy and the most popular and successful TV comedy show (of 2020) featuring a sketch based in a bakers' shop. Providing fodder for internet...
A pioneer of virtual production in sketch comedy and the most popular and successful TV comedy show (of 2020) featuring a sketch based in a bakers' shop.

Providing fodder for internet trolls since February 2020. With Miriam 'two bread rolls please' Isaac, Geraint Rhys 'too many characters' Edwards, Zak 'thinking' Ghazi-Torbati and Mali 'sourdough' Tudno-Jones.

Featuring a special appearance by 'Godfather of Gunge' Dave Benson-Phillips.

Written by Kate Reid, Zak Ghazi-Torbati, Dan Thomas, Sarah Breese, Berwyn Jackson, Mostyn Phillips, Beth Granville & Daniel Hooper
Produced by Phillip Moss and Paul Forde
Directed by Phillip Moss
A Small & Clever Production for BBC Wales.
Age Of Outrage is available here: https://bbc.in/3wczCsD
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2695falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/210-steptoe-son--50927835
Living at Mews Cottage, Shepherd's Bush, Albert Steptoe and his son Harold are a family business. They are rag and bone men. With a yard full of battered furniture, tyres and scrap metal, Albert refuses to sell half of what Harold collects and keeps it, filling the house with worthless ornaments rather than pay the bills.

Albert is a war veteran and lived at home with Harold since he was a child. His wife has passed on leaving just the father and son. Albert is so stuck with the same routine that it is impossible for his son to do anything without Albert devising some cunning ploy to stop him.

Harold is in his late thirties and still lives at home. Not that he likes it; he hates everything about it. Paying bills, living in squalor and being on constant surveillance by his father are his biggest problems.

Written by Ray Galton & Alan Simpson
Produced by Duncan Wood
Directed by Duncan Wood
A BBC tv Production.
Steptoe & Son is available here: https://amzn.to/3JJ0DJP
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50927835Tue, 16 Aug 2022 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Steptoe & Son (Series 3 Episode 7) Living at Mews Cottage, Shepherd's Bush, Albert Steptoe and his son Harold are a family business. They are rag and bone men. With a yard full of battered furniture, tyres and scrap metal,...
Living at Mews Cottage, Shepherd's Bush, Albert Steptoe and his son Harold are a family business. They are rag and bone men. With a yard full of battered furniture, tyres and scrap metal, Albert refuses to sell half of what Harold collects and keeps it, filling the house with worthless ornaments rather than pay the bills.

Albert is a war veteran and lived at home with Harold since he was a child. His wife has passed on leaving just the father and son. Albert is so stuck with the same routine that it is impossible for his son to do anything without Albert devising some cunning ploy to stop him.

Harold is in his late thirties and still lives at home. Not that he likes it; he hates everything about it. Paying bills, living in squalor and being on constant surveillance by his father are his biggest problems.

Written by Ray Galton & Alan Simpson
Produced by Duncan Wood
Directed by Duncan Wood
A BBC tv Production.
Steptoe & Son is available here: https://amzn.to/3JJ0DJP
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2626falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/209-police-squad--50836587
Created by David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and Jerry Zucker, and starred Leslie Nielsen as Frank Drebin, Police Squad was first broadcast in the United States on the ABC network in 1982.

A spoof of police procedurals, the series featured Zucker, Abrahams, and Zucker's usual sight gags, wordplay and non sequiturs. While a parody of many television shows and movies, it bore a particular resemblance to the Lee Marvin cop show M Squad (in particular the opening credits) and the late 1960s series Felony Squad.

TV Guide ranked it #7 on it’s list of 60 shows that were "Cancelled Too Soon”.

Created by Zucker, Abrahams & Zucker
Produced by Rick Correll & Deborah Hwang
Directed by various
A Paramount Production.
Police Squad is available here: https://amzn.to/3zx6CNk
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50836587Tue, 09 Aug 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Police Squad (Series 1 Episode 5) Created by David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and Jerry Zucker, and starred Leslie Nielsen as Frank Drebin, Police Squad was first broadcast in the United States on the ABC network in 1982. A spoof...
Created by David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and Jerry Zucker, and starred Leslie Nielsen as Frank Drebin, Police Squad was first broadcast in the United States on the ABC network in 1982.

A spoof of police procedurals, the series featured Zucker, Abrahams, and Zucker's usual sight gags, wordplay and non sequiturs. While a parody of many television shows and movies, it bore a particular resemblance to the Lee Marvin cop show M Squad (in particular the opening credits) and the late 1960s series Felony Squad.

TV Guide ranked it #7 on it’s list of 60 shows that were "Cancelled Too Soon”.

Created by Zucker, Abrahams & Zucker
Produced by Rick Correll & Deborah Hwang
Directed by various
A Paramount Production.
Police Squad is available here: https://amzn.to/3zx6CNk
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2732falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/208-hacks--50774491
Deborah Vance, a legendary Las Vegas stand-up comedy diva, needs to re-invent her aging act to avoid losing her residency at the Palmetto Casino.

Ava is a young comedy writer who is unable to find work due to an insensitive tweet and her reputation for being self-centered and arrogant.

When Ava's manager sends her to work as Deborah's new head writer, the two slowly bond as Ava pushes her new boss to take more risks and Deborah, in turn, helps Ava start to work through her personal problems.

Created by Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Carl Clemons-Hopkins
Produced by Melanie J. Elin
A First Thought / Paulilu / Femulon / 3 Arts Entertainment Production.
Hacks is available here: https://amzn.to/3PCljVZ
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50774491Tue, 02 Aug 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Hacks (Series 1 Episode 1) Deborah Vance, a legendary Las Vegas stand-up comedy diva, needs to re-invent her aging act to avoid losing her residency at the Palmetto Casino. Ava is a young comedy writer who is unable to find...
Deborah Vance, a legendary Las Vegas stand-up comedy diva, needs to re-invent her aging act to avoid losing her residency at the Palmetto Casino.

Ava is a young comedy writer who is unable to find work due to an insensitive tweet and her reputation for being self-centered and arrogant.

When Ava's manager sends her to work as Deborah's new head writer, the two slowly bond as Ava pushes her new boss to take more risks and Deborah, in turn, helps Ava start to work through her personal problems.

Created by Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Carl Clemons-Hopkins
Produced by Melanie J. Elin
A First Thought / Paulilu / Femulon / 3 Arts Entertainment Production.
Hacks is available here: https://amzn.to/3PCljVZ
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2707falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/207-ankle-tag--50702277
Former convict Bob is forced to live with his uptight son Gruff, sympathetic daughter-in-law Alice and granddaughter Carys whilst on parole.

Gruff is a new father whose own father, Bob, suddenly comes back into his life after a long absence.

Bob is a convicted fraudster, released from prison on licence, who wants to inveigle his way back into his estranged son's life. He's charming, optimistic and warm. People like him. That's why they gave him so much of their life savings. Gruff's wife Alice is quite taken with the charming Bob.

She would be - he's a fraudster - that's how he works.

Written by Gareth Gwynn and Benjamin Partridge
Produced by Victoria Lloyd and Adnan Ahmed
A BBC Studios Production.
Ankle Tag is available here: https://bbc.in/3yYRCHL
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50702277Tue, 26 Jul 2022 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Ankle Tag (Series 3 Episode 1) Former convict Bob is forced to live with his uptight son Gruff, sympathetic daughter-in-law Alice and granddaughter Carys whilst on parole. Gruff is a new father whose own father, Bob, suddenly...
Former convict Bob is forced to live with his uptight son Gruff, sympathetic daughter-in-law Alice and granddaughter Carys whilst on parole.

Gruff is a new father whose own father, Bob, suddenly comes back into his life after a long absence.

Bob is a convicted fraudster, released from prison on licence, who wants to inveigle his way back into his estranged son's life. He's charming, optimistic and warm. People like him. That's why they gave him so much of their life savings. Gruff's wife Alice is quite taken with the charming Bob.

She would be - he's a fraudster - that's how he works.

Written by Gareth Gwynn and Benjamin Partridge
Produced by Victoria Lloyd and Adnan Ahmed
A BBC Studios Production.
Ankle Tag is available here: https://bbc.in/3yYRCHL
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2726falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/206-only-murders-in-the-building--50644217
Three strangers share an obsession with true crime and suddenly find themselves wrapped up in one.

When a grisly death occurs inside their exclusive Upper West Side apartment building, the trio suspects murder and employs their precise knowledge of true crime to investigate the truth. Perhaps even more explosive are the lies they tell one another.

Soon, the endangered trio comes to realise a killer might be living among them as they race to decipher the mounting clues before it's too late.

Created by Steve Martin & John Hoffman
Produced by Thembi Banks, Jane Raab, Nick Pavonetti, Kristin Bernstein
Rhode Island Productions / Another Hoffman Story Productions / 40 Share for 20th Television.
Only Murders In The Building is available here: https://bit.ly/3OgjkFd
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50644217Tue, 19 Jul 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Only Murders In The Building (Series 2 Episode 1) Three strangers share an obsession with true crime and suddenly find themselves wrapped up in one. When a grisly death occurs inside their exclusive Upper West Side apartment...
Three strangers share an obsession with true crime and suddenly find themselves wrapped up in one.

When a grisly death occurs inside their exclusive Upper West Side apartment building, the trio suspects murder and employs their precise knowledge of true crime to investigate the truth. Perhaps even more explosive are the lies they tell one another.

Soon, the endangered trio comes to realise a killer might be living among them as they race to decipher the mounting clues before it's too late.

Created by Steve Martin & John Hoffman
Produced by Thembi Banks, Jane Raab, Nick Pavonetti, Kristin Bernstein
Rhode Island Productions / Another Hoffman Story Productions / 40 Share for 20th Television.
Only Murders In The Building is available here: https://bit.ly/3OgjkFd
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.]]>2752falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/205-henry-ix--50539729
Set in the fictitious, contemporary court of Henry IX, King of the United Kingdom, this is the almost universal story of a forty-something man going through a mid-life crisis, except this one just happens to be the reigning monarch, King of Great Britain and the Commonwealth.

This three part sitcom has been penned by the legendary, multi award-winning comedy writing team behind Porridge, The Likely Lads and Auf Wiedersehen Pet, Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais.

The series sees Henry struggle to make changes to his life in the face of centuries of tradition and a Royal household who are fairly sure they have his - and if not, certainly their own - best interests at heart.

Written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais
Produced by Pete Thornton, Jon Rolph, Tarquin Gotch, Tanya Qureshi and Simon Lupton
Directed By Vadim Jean
A Retort in association with Serious Comedy Production for Gold.
Henry IX is available here: https://bit.ly/3RokqBw
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50539729Tue, 12 Jul 2022 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Henry IX (Series 1 Episode 1) Set in the fictitious, contemporary court of Henry IX, King of the United Kingdom, this is the almost universal story of a forty-something man going through a mid-life crisis, except this one just...
Set in the fictitious, contemporary court of Henry IX, King of the United Kingdom, this is the almost universal story of a forty-something man going through a mid-life crisis, except this one just happens to be the reigning monarch, King of Great Britain and the Commonwealth.

This three part sitcom has been penned by the legendary, multi award-winning comedy writing team behind Porridge, The Likely Lads and Auf Wiedersehen Pet, Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais.

The series sees Henry struggle to make changes to his life in the face of centuries of tradition and a Royal household who are fairly sure they have his - and if not, certainly their own - best interests at heart.

Written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais
Produced by Pete Thornton, Jon Rolph, Tarquin Gotch, Tanya Qureshi and Simon Lupton
Directed By Vadim Jean
A Retort in association with Serious Comedy Production for Gold.
Henry IX is available here: https://bit.ly/3RokqBw
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2625falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/204-benidorm--50459743
The Solana holiday resort in Spain welcomes a regular group of British holiday makers each year.

There are sex-mad swingers; OAPs; young families; singletons; dodgy dealers; couples; flamboyant homosexuals; pub quiz champions; dysfunctional families and everything in between. And they're just the guests!

A similarly wild array of both Spanish and British staff members complete the line-up at Benidorm's all-inclusive Solana, where disaster never seems to be far down the road.

Written by Derren Litten
Produced by Geoffrey Perkins
Directed By Kevin Allen
A Tiger Aspect Production.
Benidorm is available here: https://bit.ly/3OGcavh
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50459743Tue, 05 Jul 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Benidorm (Series 1 Episode 1) The Solana holiday resort in Spain welcomes a regular group of British holiday makers each year. There are sex-mad swingers; OAPs; young families; singletons; dodgy dealers; couples; flamboyant...
The Solana holiday resort in Spain welcomes a regular group of British holiday makers each year.

There are sex-mad swingers; OAPs; young families; singletons; dodgy dealers; couples; flamboyant homosexuals; pub quiz champions; dysfunctional families and everything in between. And they're just the guests!

A similarly wild array of both Spanish and British staff members complete the line-up at Benidorm's all-inclusive Solana, where disaster never seems to be far down the road.

Written by Derren Litten
Produced by Geoffrey Perkins
Directed By Kevin Allen
A Tiger Aspect Production.
Benidorm is available here: https://bit.ly/3OGcavh
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2706falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/203-the-music-teacher--50391531
The Music Teacher is a musical comedy written by and starring 2009 Writers' Guild award winner Richie Webb as music teacher Nigel Penny.

Shut away in a windowless practice room in a regional arts centre, Nigel endures a succession of pupils. The middle-aged bachelor with his homemade Moog; the six-year-old trombonist whose arms aren't quite long enough; and the female student who is forever in a state of tearful crisis and never gets her oboe out are just some of the people who enter Nigel's airless little room.

Written by Richie Webb
Produced by Richie Webb
Directed By Nick Walker
A Top Dog Production fro BBC Radio 4.
The Music Teacher is available here: https://bbc.in/3OP5Kt4
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50391531Tue, 28 Jun 2022 13:55:39 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review The Music Teacher (Series 1 Episode 1 & 2) The Music Teacher is a musical comedy written by and starring 2009 Writers' Guild award winner Richie Webb as music teacher Nigel Penny. Shut away in a windowless practice room in a...
The Music Teacher is a musical comedy written by and starring 2009 Writers' Guild award winner Richie Webb as music teacher Nigel Penny.

Shut away in a windowless practice room in a regional arts centre, Nigel endures a succession of pupils. The middle-aged bachelor with his homemade Moog; the six-year-old trombonist whose arms aren't quite long enough; and the female student who is forever in a state of tearful crisis and never gets her oboe out are just some of the people who enter Nigel's airless little room.

Written by Richie Webb
Produced by Richie Webb
Directed By Nick Walker
A Top Dog Production fro BBC Radio 4.
The Music Teacher is available here: https://bbc.in/3OP5Kt4
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2716falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/202-superstore--50269729
Starring America Ferrera and Ben Feldman (who both also serve as executive producers), Superstore follows a group of employees working at Cloud 9, a fictional big-box chain store in St. Louis, Missouri.

Written by Justin Spitzer
Produced by America Ferrera, Harry J. Lange Jr, Eric Ledgin, Sierra Teller Ornelas, Ben Feldman
A Pitzer Holding Company / The District / Universal Production.
Superstore is available here: https://bit.ly/3tNgkJi
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50269729Tue, 21 Jun 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Superstore (Series 2 Episode 1) Starring America Ferrera and Ben Feldman (who both also serve as executive producers), Superstore follows a group of employees working at Cloud 9, a fictional big-box chain store in St. Louis,...
Starring America Ferrera and Ben Feldman (who both also serve as executive producers), Superstore follows a group of employees working at Cloud 9, a fictional big-box chain store in St. Louis, Missouri.

Written by Justin Spitzer
Produced by America Ferrera, Harry J. Lange Jr, Eric Ledgin, Sierra Teller Ornelas, Ben Feldman
A Pitzer Holding Company / The District / Universal Production.
Superstore is available here: https://bit.ly/3tNgkJi
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2699falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/201-here-we-go--50188440
Here We Go follows the highs and lows of the Jessop family as they navigate a combination of life's everyday challenges - changing careers, keeping the romance alive within a marriage, adopting a healthier lifestyle, kidnapping a dog, destroying a swimming pool and sabotaging a wedding.

Youngest son Sam documents the family across the year using his camera. Moving back and forward in time, each episode offers an intimate, observed and absurd exposé of a modern British family doing its best to support each other, if accidentally annoying everyone else in the process.

Written by Tom Basden
Produced by Tom Jordan, Josh Cole & Tom Basden.
Directed by Will Sinclair
A BBC Studios Production.
Here We Go is available here: https://bbc.in/3x1kXjy
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50188440Tue, 14 Jun 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Here We Go (Series 1 Episode 1) Here We Go follows the highs and lows of the Jessop family as they navigate a combination of life's everyday challenges - changing careers, keeping the romance alive within a marriage, adopting a...
Here We Go follows the highs and lows of the Jessop family as they navigate a combination of life's everyday challenges - changing careers, keeping the romance alive within a marriage, adopting a healthier lifestyle, kidnapping a dog, destroying a swimming pool and sabotaging a wedding.

Youngest son Sam documents the family across the year using his camera. Moving back and forward in time, each episode offers an intimate, observed and absurd exposé of a modern British family doing its best to support each other, if accidentally annoying everyone else in the process.

Written by Tom Basden
Produced by Tom Jordan, Josh Cole & Tom Basden.
Directed by Will Sinclair
A BBC Studios Production.
Here We Go is available here: https://bbc.in/3x1kXjy
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2714falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/200-monty-python-s-flying-circus--50107838
Surrealist, observational and curiously subversive, Monty Python's Flying Circus is a sketch show not quite like any other.

Mixing off-the-wall animated sequences, observational humour, innuendo and plain silliness, it often shines an inquisitive and mocking light on the established conventions and idiosyncrasies of British life, and accepted ideas and norms.

Some of the most celebrated and memorable Monty Python sketches include: "The Parrot Sketch", "The Spanish Inquisition", “The Artful Nudger“, "The Lumberjack Song", "The Ministry of Silly Walks" and "The Cheese Shop".

Written by The Cast & Carol Cleveland
Produced by John Howard Davies and Ian MacNaughton
Directed by John Howard Davies and Ian MacNaughton
A BBC Production.
Monty Python’s Flying Circus available here: https://bit.ly/38wIe4G
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50107838Tue, 07 Jun 2022 15:56:42 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Monty Python’s Flying Circus (Series 1 Episode 1) Surrealist, observational and curiously subversive, Monty Python's Flying Circus is a sketch show not quite like any other. Mixing off-the-wall animated sequences,...
Surrealist, observational and curiously subversive, Monty Python's Flying Circus is a sketch show not quite like any other.

Mixing off-the-wall animated sequences, observational humour, innuendo and plain silliness, it often shines an inquisitive and mocking light on the established conventions and idiosyncrasies of British life, and accepted ideas and norms.

Some of the most celebrated and memorable Monty Python sketches include: "The Parrot Sketch", "The Spanish Inquisition", “The Artful Nudger“, "The Lumberjack Song", "The Ministry of Silly Walks" and "The Cheese Shop".

Written by The Cast & Carol Cleveland
Produced by John Howard Davies and Ian MacNaughton
Directed by John Howard Davies and Ian MacNaughton
A BBC Production.
Monty Python’s Flying Circus available here: https://bit.ly/38wIe4G
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2664falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/199-the-secret-world--50008234
The Secret World allows listeners to eavesdrop on the bizarre, surprising and very secret lives of public people who have been caught unaware by the microphone.

Parallel stories unfold from morning until night as the great and good become embroiled in the most unlikely situations.

Although not topical or political, The Secret World is a surreal twist on the familiar "impression show" without parody, pastiche or the usual characterising.

Written by Bill Dare, Julian Dutton and Duncan Wisbey
Produced by Bill Dare
A BBC Production.
The Secret World is available here: https://bbc.in/38VU092
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50008234Tue, 31 May 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review The Secret World (Series 2 Episode 1) The Secret World allows listeners to eavesdrop on the bizarre, surprising and very secret lives of public people who have been caught unaware by the microphone. Parallel stories unfold...
The Secret World allows listeners to eavesdrop on the bizarre, surprising and very secret lives of public people who have been caught unaware by the microphone.

Parallel stories unfold from morning until night as the great and good become embroiled in the most unlikely situations.

Although not topical or political, The Secret World is a surreal twist on the familiar "impression show" without parody, pastiche or the usual characterising.

Written by Bill Dare, Julian Dutton and Duncan Wisbey
Produced by Bill Dare
A BBC Production.
The Secret World is available here: https://bbc.in/38VU092
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2732falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/198-modern-toss--49922963
Modern Toss is a couple of cack handed trouble-makers thinking up jokes and drawing them up for comics, greetings cards, books and animation.

Prized by connoisseurs and collectors, their laugh out loud prints and artwork decorate toilet walls throughout the country.

They made two TV series for Channel 4 along with an impressive stack of other short animations for the telly.

Written by Jon Link & Mick Bunnage
Produced by Rebecca Ferrand
Directed by Joe Cornish
A Channel X Production for Channel 4.
Modern Toss clips are available here: https://bit.ly/3FBQSLy
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49922963Tue, 24 May 2022 13:56:36 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Modern Toss (Pilot) Modern Toss is a couple of cack handed trouble-makers thinking up jokes and drawing them up for comics, greetings cards, books and animation. Prized by connoisseurs and collectors, their laugh out loud...
Modern Toss is a couple of cack handed trouble-makers thinking up jokes and drawing them up for comics, greetings cards, books and animation.

Prized by connoisseurs and collectors, their laugh out loud prints and artwork decorate toilet walls throughout the country.

They made two TV series for Channel 4 along with an impressive stack of other short animations for the telly.

Written by Jon Link & Mick Bunnage
Produced by Rebecca Ferrand
Directed by Joe Cornish
A Channel X Production for Channel 4.
Modern Toss clips are available here: https://bit.ly/3FBQSLy
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2647falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/197-peter-kay-s-car-share--49811593
Car Share is written, directed by and stars Peter Kay.

The sitcom follows John and Kayleigh who have been thrown together in a company car share scheme, forcing their paths to cross as they journey to their respective jobs at a major out-of-town supermarket.

Each journey brings fresh insight into John and Kayleigh's lives, with twists and turns in their unlikely relationship.

Written by Paul Coleman, Peter Kay, Sian Gibson and Tim Reid
Produced by Gill Isles & Margaret Mubarak
A Goodnight Vienna Production.
Peter Kay’s Car Share is available here: https://amzn.to/3yq5U5B
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49811593Tue, 17 May 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Peter Kay’s Car Share (Series 1 Episode 3) Car Share is written, directed by and stars Peter Kay. The sitcom follows John and Kayleigh who have been thrown together in a company car share scheme, forcing their paths to cross...
Car Share is written, directed by and stars Peter Kay.

The sitcom follows John and Kayleigh who have been thrown together in a company car share scheme, forcing their paths to cross as they journey to their respective jobs at a major out-of-town supermarket.

Each journey brings fresh insight into John and Kayleigh's lives, with twists and turns in their unlikely relationship.

Written by Paul Coleman, Peter Kay, Sian Gibson and Tim Reid
Produced by Gill Isles & Margaret Mubarak
A Goodnight Vienna Production.
Peter Kay’s Car Share is available here: https://amzn.to/3yq5U5B
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2701falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/196-mum-s-on-the-run--49730003
Sitcom starring Ronni Ancona as single mum Jen and John Gordon-Sinclair as Mr Rigby.

Mum's On The Run follows Jen's hectic life as she finds herself spending most of her time as an unpaid chauffeur to her 14-year-old teenage existentialist son, Toby, and a tonally challenged harmonica practising 10-year-old daughter, Felicity.

Meanwhile, she also has to cope with her jazz musician ex-husband, the fiercely competitive and annoying downstairs neighbour, and the huge crush she has on her son's history teacher.

Written by Alex Zegerman
Produced by Dawn Ellis & Alison Vernon-Smith
A BBC Production.
Mum’s On The Run is available here: https://bbc.in/3s8wzje
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49730003Tue, 10 May 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Mum’s On The Run (Series 1 Episode 1) Sitcom starring Ronni Ancona as single mum Jen and John Gordon-Sinclair as Mr Rigby. Mum's On The Run follows Jen's hectic life as she finds herself spending most of her time as an unpaid...
Sitcom starring Ronni Ancona as single mum Jen and John Gordon-Sinclair as Mr Rigby.

Mum's On The Run follows Jen's hectic life as she finds herself spending most of her time as an unpaid chauffeur to her 14-year-old teenage existentialist son, Toby, and a tonally challenged harmonica practising 10-year-old daughter, Felicity.

Meanwhile, she also has to cope with her jazz musician ex-husband, the fiercely competitive and annoying downstairs neighbour, and the huge crush she has on her son's history teacher.

Written by Alex Zegerman
Produced by Dawn Ellis & Alison Vernon-Smith
A BBC Production.
Mum’s On The Run is available here: https://bbc.in/3s8wzje
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2736falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/195-it-s-a-fair-cop--49629232
Former police officer and stand-up comic Alfie Moore presents this show in which he asks his audience what decisions they'd have made in a real life case that he has dealt with.

After swearing in his audience as police officers for one day only, Alfie takes them through one case as it unfolded and asks them what they'd have done in his shoes.

Along the way he spills the beans on what it's really like to be one of Britain's finest, tells us some great anecdotes about the law breakers and makers that he's come across, and gets his studio audience to divulge secrets about their own, sometimes less than strictly law-abiding lives.

Written by Alfie Moore
Produced by Alison Vernon-Smith
A BBC Radio Comedy Production.
It’s A Fair Cop is available here: https://bbc.in/3y9RFBp
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49629232Tue, 03 May 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review It’s A Fair Cop (Series 2 Episode 1) Former police officer and stand-up comic Alfie Moore presents this show in which he asks his audience what decisions they'd have made in a real life case that he has dealt with. After...
Former police officer and stand-up comic Alfie Moore presents this show in which he asks his audience what decisions they'd have made in a real life case that he has dealt with.

After swearing in his audience as police officers for one day only, Alfie takes them through one case as it unfolded and asks them what they'd have done in his shoes.

Along the way he spills the beans on what it's really like to be one of Britain's finest, tells us some great anecdotes about the law breakers and makers that he's come across, and gets his studio audience to divulge secrets about their own, sometimes less than strictly law-abiding lives.

Written by Alfie Moore
Produced by Alison Vernon-Smith
A BBC Radio Comedy Production.
It’s A Fair Cop is available here: https://bbc.in/3y9RFBp
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2683falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/194-defending-the-guilty--49555986
Will Packham is a pupil barrister: smart, dedicated and good-hearted. Or at least he is for now.

Far from the glamorous world portrayed in TV, his job means dirt wages, being on call 24/7 and endless travel to far-flung municipal buildings.

His clients are at least as guilty as sin, his cynical pupil master Caroline thinks he's only good for fetching pastries and he is vying for a job with three other pupil barristers, all of whom would stab each other in the front to get it.

Will fights the urge to let his work life bleed into his personal life and he quickly discovers that winning isn't the same as being vindicated, and that everyone's guilty of something.

Written by Kieron Quirke
Produced by Georgie Fallon
Directed By Tom George
A Bigtalk Production for BBC.
Defending The Guilty is available here: https://bbc.in/3K0Refm
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49555986Tue, 26 Apr 2022 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Defending The Guilty (Series 1 Episode 4) Will Packham is a pupil barrister: smart, dedicated and good-hearted. Or at least he is for now. Far from the glamorous world portrayed in TV, his job means dirt wages, being on call...
Will Packham is a pupil barrister: smart, dedicated and good-hearted. Or at least he is for now.

Far from the glamorous world portrayed in TV, his job means dirt wages, being on call 24/7 and endless travel to far-flung municipal buildings.

His clients are at least as guilty as sin, his cynical pupil master Caroline thinks he's only good for fetching pastries and he is vying for a job with three other pupil barristers, all of whom would stab each other in the front to get it.

Will fights the urge to let his work life bleed into his personal life and he quickly discovers that winning isn't the same as being vindicated, and that everyone's guilty of something.

Written by Kieron Quirke
Produced by Georgie Fallon
Directed By Tom George
A Bigtalk Production for BBC.
Defending The Guilty is available here: https://bbc.in/3K0Refm
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2758falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/193-it-ain-t-half-hot-mum--49475480
As World War II is coming to a close, the Royal Artillery Concert Party in India are doing their utmost to keep themselves away from the front line.

Battery Sergeant Major Williams sees his men as an embarrassment and is determined to knock them in to shape.

However, he has little support from his senior officers who enjoy the theatrical aspect of their job. Nevertheless, they are thrust in to situations which call for more than just the ability to apply greasepaint and lipstick!

Written by David Croft & Jimmy Perry
Produced by David Croft and Graeme Muir
Directed By John Kilby, Phil Bishop, Bob Spiers, David Croft and Graeme Muir
A BBC Production.
It Ain’t Half Hot Mum is available here: https://amzn.to/3jsAEKr
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49475480Tue, 19 Apr 2022 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review It Ain’t Half Hot Mum (Series 2 Episode 1) As World War II is coming to a close, the Royal Artillery Concert Party in India are doing their utmost to keep themselves away from the front line. Battery Sergeant Major Williams...
As World War II is coming to a close, the Royal Artillery Concert Party in India are doing their utmost to keep themselves away from the front line.

Battery Sergeant Major Williams sees his men as an embarrassment and is determined to knock them in to shape.

However, he has little support from his senior officers who enjoy the theatrical aspect of their job. Nevertheless, they are thrust in to situations which call for more than just the ability to apply greasepaint and lipstick!

Written by David Croft & Jimmy Perry
Produced by David Croft and Graeme Muir
Directed By John Kilby, Phil Bishop, Bob Spiers, David Croft and Graeme Muir
A BBC Production.
It Ain’t Half Hot Mum is available here: https://amzn.to/3jsAEKr
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2720falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/192-george-fouracres-black-country-gentlemon--49409319
Based on George Fouracres's 2019 Edinburgh Fringe solo debut, Gentlemon, in which the stand-up and sketch comic celebrated his Black Country roots.

This special "is loosely about changing post-industrial landscapes, pigeon flying, faith and aspirationalism" he announced on social media.

"But chiefly it's just impressions of my family, all of whom are funnier and more interesting than me."

Written by George Fouracres
Produced by Richard Morris
A BBC Studios Production.
George Fouracres - Black Country Gentlemon is available here: https://bbc.in/36QkVSv

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49409319Tue, 12 Apr 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review George Fouracres - Black Country Gentlemon Based on George Fouracres's 2019 Edinburgh Fringe solo debut, Gentlemon, in which the stand-up and sketch comic celebrated his Black Country roots. This special "is loosely about...
Based on George Fouracres's 2019 Edinburgh Fringe solo debut, Gentlemon, in which the stand-up and sketch comic celebrated his Black Country roots.

This special "is loosely about changing post-industrial landscapes, pigeon flying, faith and aspirationalism" he announced on social media.

"But chiefly it's just impressions of my family, all of whom are funnier and more interesting than me."

Written by George Fouracres
Produced by Richard Morris
A BBC Studios Production.
George Fouracres - Black Country Gentlemon is available here: https://bbc.in/36QkVSv

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2735falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/191-the-witchfinder--49293232
It's the year of our Lord 1647 and fear of witchcraft is rife. Puritanical Christianity, deep-seated superstition and a willingness to scapegoat outsiders have created a tinderbox of suspicion in which few are safe.

A failing witchfinder, Gideon Bannister, transports a suspected witch across 1640s East Anglia to a trial that could change his fortunes forever.

His captive is the worst possible travel companion: an inquisitive, uncouth woman named Thomasine Gooch, whose ability to prick his pomposity and ask uncomfortable questions turns a straightforward journey into a life-changing ordeal.

Written by Neil Gibbons, Rob Gibbons and Steve Coogan
Produced by Joe Frazer
Directed by Neil Gibbons and Rob Gibbons
A Baby Cow production for BBC.
The Witchfinder is available here: https://bbc.in/3tKVn1S
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49293232Tue, 05 Apr 2022 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review The Witchfinder (Series 1 Episode 1) It's the year of our Lord 1647 and fear of witchcraft is rife. Puritanical Christianity, deep-seated superstition and a willingness to scapegoat outsiders have created a tinderbox of...
It's the year of our Lord 1647 and fear of witchcraft is rife. Puritanical Christianity, deep-seated superstition and a willingness to scapegoat outsiders have created a tinderbox of suspicion in which few are safe.

A failing witchfinder, Gideon Bannister, transports a suspected witch across 1640s East Anglia to a trial that could change his fortunes forever.

His captive is the worst possible travel companion: an inquisitive, uncouth woman named Thomasine Gooch, whose ability to prick his pomposity and ask uncomfortable questions turns a straightforward journey into a life-changing ordeal.

Written by Neil Gibbons, Rob Gibbons and Steve Coogan
Produced by Joe Frazer
Directed by Neil Gibbons and Rob Gibbons
A Baby Cow production for BBC.
The Witchfinder is available here: https://bbc.in/3tKVn1S
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2719falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/190-drop-the-dead-donkey--49224786
Topical sitcom set in the production office of GlobeLink News, a television news company undergoing transformation under the hand of unscrupulous new owner Sir Royston Merchant.

Having recently acquired the company, the multi-millionaire media tycoon and business tyrant orders that the staff should start taking a more sensationalist, tabloid stance in its reporting.

Yuppie Gus Hedges (who speaks in a myriad of boardroom 'buzzwords' and clichés) is in charge of the transformation. Nervous news editor George Dent is too weak to stand up to Gus so it is left to his second in command Alex, to try and stop Gus ruining the station entirely.

Written by Andy Hamilton & Guy Jenkin
Produced by Andy Hamilton, Guy Jenkin and Denise O'Donoghue
Directed by Liddy Oldroyd
A Hat Trick production for Channel 4.
Drop The Dead Donkey is available here: https://bit.ly/3tqQ1ZB
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49224786Tue, 29 Mar 2022 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Drop The Dead Donkey (Series 1 Episode 5) Topical sitcom set in the production office of GlobeLink News, a television news company undergoing transformation under the hand of unscrupulous new owner Sir Royston Merchant....
Topical sitcom set in the production office of GlobeLink News, a television news company undergoing transformation under the hand of unscrupulous new owner Sir Royston Merchant.

Having recently acquired the company, the multi-millionaire media tycoon and business tyrant orders that the staff should start taking a more sensationalist, tabloid stance in its reporting.

Yuppie Gus Hedges (who speaks in a myriad of boardroom 'buzzwords' and clichés) is in charge of the transformation. Nervous news editor George Dent is too weak to stand up to Gus so it is left to his second in command Alex, to try and stop Gus ruining the station entirely.

Written by Andy Hamilton & Guy Jenkin
Produced by Andy Hamilton, Guy Jenkin and Denise O'Donoghue
Directed by Liddy Oldroyd
A Hat Trick production for Channel 4.
Drop The Dead Donkey is available here: https://bit.ly/3tqQ1ZB
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2705falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/189-people-just-do-nothing--49146505 
A mockumentary that goes behind the microphone of Kurupt FM - the second most popular pirate radio station in West London, receiving up to eight texts per show and playing the finest in UK garage and drum 'n' bass.

Co-founded by the MC Grindah and DJ Beats in 2002, the station has now built up a following of over a hundred people and has attracted the attention of the BBC who are making a documentary about the lives of those behind Kurupt FM.

Written by Steve Stamp, Allan Mustafa, Hugo Chegwin, Asim Chaudhry, Lily Brazier and Ben Murray
Produced by Jon Petrie, Jack Clough, Ash Atalla and Georgia Collins
Directed by Jack Clough and Andy Gradwell
A Roughtcut production for BBC.
People Just Do Nothing is available here: https://bbc.in/37ojCKx
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49146505Tue, 22 Mar 2022 15:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review People Just Do Nothing (Series 2 Episode 1)   A mockumentary that goes behind the microphone of Kurupt FM - the second most popular pirate radio station in West London, receiving up to eight texts per show and playing the finest... 
A mockumentary that goes behind the microphone of Kurupt FM - the second most popular pirate radio station in West London, receiving up to eight texts per show and playing the finest in UK garage and drum 'n' bass.

Co-founded by the MC Grindah and DJ Beats in 2002, the station has now built up a following of over a hundred people and has attracted the attention of the BBC who are making a documentary about the lives of those behind Kurupt FM.

Written by Steve Stamp, Allan Mustafa, Hugo Chegwin, Asim Chaudhry, Lily Brazier and Ben Murray
Produced by Jon Petrie, Jack Clough, Ash Atalla and Georgia Collins
Directed by Jack Clough and Andy Gradwell
A Roughtcut production for BBC.
People Just Do Nothing is available here: https://bbc.in/37ojCKx
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2689falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/188-conversations-from-a-long-marriage--49062357 
Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam play a couple who have been married for over 40 years. Children of the Sixties, they're still free spirits, drawn together by their passion for music - and each other.

The show follows their conversations that take them from the local café, to their kitchen table, taking in her resentment of new glasses - a symbol of ageing - and fury at being lectured by the dental hygienist. He has a dodgy knee and is on statins, and when they discuss the marriage break-up of their closest friends, Sally and Peter, there's jealousy and talk of affairs. She suggests there are advantages to single beds, separate holidays and wants to go clubbing in Ibiza for her imminent 'big' birthday.

Written by Jan Etherington
Produced by Claire Jones
A BBC production.
Conversations From A Long Marriage is available here: https://bbc.in/3IP1nvF
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49062357Tue, 15 Mar 2022 15:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Conversations From A Long Marriage (Series 3 Episode 1)   Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam play a couple who have been married for over 40 years. Children of the Sixties, they're still free spirits, drawn together by their passion... 
Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam play a couple who have been married for over 40 years. Children of the Sixties, they're still free spirits, drawn together by their passion for music - and each other.

The show follows their conversations that take them from the local café, to their kitchen table, taking in her resentment of new glasses - a symbol of ageing - and fury at being lectured by the dental hygienist. He has a dodgy knee and is on statins, and when they discuss the marriage break-up of their closest friends, Sally and Peter, there's jealousy and talk of affairs. She suggests there are advantages to single beds, separate holidays and wants to go clubbing in Ibiza for her imminent 'big' birthday.

Written by Jan Etherington
Produced by Claire Jones
A BBC production.
Conversations From A Long Marriage is available here: https://bbc.in/3IP1nvF
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2735falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/187-vent--48977628 
Vent is a dark radio comedy about a man recovering from a coma.

The main character, Ben doesn't get out much because he's in a coma. However, he does have an active imagination, a comfortable bed and his mum and wife at his side.

Amongst the humour we find an original comedy about how a life-threatening illness can change peoples lives and is based on the writer's own experiences when in 2001, Nigel Smith was rushed to hospital with a brain lesion so big, the radiologist thought the scan had been taken post-mortem.

Written by Nigel Smith
Produced by Gareth edwards
A BBC production.
Vent is available here: https://amzn.to/3svOEZg
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48977628Tue, 08 Mar 2022 15:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Vent (Series 1 Episode 1)   Vent is a dark radio comedy about a man recovering from a coma. The main character, Ben doesn't get out much because he's in a coma. However, he does have an active imagination, a comfortable bed... 
Vent is a dark radio comedy about a man recovering from a coma.

The main character, Ben doesn't get out much because he's in a coma. However, he does have an active imagination, a comfortable bed and his mum and wife at his side.

Amongst the humour we find an original comedy about how a life-threatening illness can change peoples lives and is based on the writer's own experiences when in 2001, Nigel Smith was rushed to hospital with a brain lesion so big, the radiologist thought the scan had been taken post-mortem.

Written by Nigel Smith
Produced by Gareth edwards
A BBC production.
Vent is available here: https://amzn.to/3svOEZg
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2741falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/186-30-rock--48889074 
Liz Lemon, head writer of a sketch comedy show, has to deal with her arrogant boss and eccentric stars. Regardless, she must run the TV show successfully without losing her mind.

Created by Tina Fey, it’s based on her experiences as head writer for Saturday Night Live. It takes place behind the scenes of a fictional live sketch comedy show depicted as airing on NBC.

The series' name refers to 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, the address of the now Comcast Building, where the NBC Studios are located.

The series stars Fey with a supporting cast that includes Alec Baldwin, Tracy Morgan and Jane Krakowski.

Tonally, it uses surreal humour to parody the complex corporate structure of NBC and its then parent company General Electric and has been described as adopting the manic pacing of a live-action cartoon and has been influential in its extensive use of cutaways. It also became known for its dedication to making sets extremely elaborate, once showing a set that took three days to build for only six seconds.

Written by Tina Fey
Produced by Jeff Richmond & Jerry Kupfer
Directed By Adam Bernstein
A Broadway Video / Little Stranger Inc production for NBC Universal.
30 Rock is available here: https://bit.ly/3BJeqvL
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48889074Mon, 28 Feb 2022 15:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review 30 Rock (Series 1 Episode 2)   Liz Lemon, head writer of a sketch comedy show, has to deal with her arrogant boss and eccentric stars. Regardless, she must run the TV show successfully without losing her mind. Created by Tina... 
Liz Lemon, head writer of a sketch comedy show, has to deal with her arrogant boss and eccentric stars. Regardless, she must run the TV show successfully without losing her mind.

Created by Tina Fey, it’s based on her experiences as head writer for Saturday Night Live. It takes place behind the scenes of a fictional live sketch comedy show depicted as airing on NBC.

The series' name refers to 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, the address of the now Comcast Building, where the NBC Studios are located.

The series stars Fey with a supporting cast that includes Alec Baldwin, Tracy Morgan and Jane Krakowski.

Tonally, it uses surreal humour to parody the complex corporate structure of NBC and its then parent company General Electric and has been described as adopting the manic pacing of a live-action cartoon and has been influential in its extensive use of cutaways. It also became known for its dedication to making sets extremely elaborate, once showing a set that took three days to build for only six seconds.

Written by Tina Fey
Produced by Jeff Richmond & Jerry Kupfer
Directed By Adam Bernstein
A Broadway Video / Little Stranger Inc production for NBC Universal.
30 Rock is available here: https://bit.ly/3BJeqvL
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2743falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/185-whatever-happened-to-the-likely-lads--48829650
It's been over 5 years since the little mishap that left Terry in the Army and Bob discharged with flat feet in The Likely Lads.

Terry, now back in civilian life, returns to Newcastle to find that everything has changed - not least his friend Bob who is now engaged to be married and upwardly mobile in more ways than one.

There is no love lost between Terry and Bob's fiancée, Thelma, so reinvigorating their friendship will prove difficult at the best of times. It's not long before Bob is having doubts that the last person he needs in his life, right now, is Terry.

Written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais
Produced by Jack Gilbert and Bernard Thompson
Directed by James Gilbert, Bernard Thompson & Dick Clement (All uncredited)
A BBC production.
Whatever Happened To The Likely Lads is available here: https://amzn.to/3GP0ZLK

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48829650Tue, 22 Feb 2022 18:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis time we review Whatever Happened To The Likely Lads (Series 1 Episode 6) It's been over 5 years since the little mishap that left Terry in the Army and Bob discharged with flat feet in The Likely Lads. Terry, now back in civilian life,...
It's been over 5 years since the little mishap that left Terry in the Army and Bob discharged with flat feet in The Likely Lads.

Terry, now back in civilian life, returns to Newcastle to find that everything has changed - not least his friend Bob who is now engaged to be married and upwardly mobile in more ways than one.

There is no love lost between Terry and Bob's fiancée, Thelma, so reinvigorating their friendship will prove difficult at the best of times. It's not long before Bob is having doubts that the last person he needs in his life, right now, is Terry.

Written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais
Produced by Jack Gilbert and Bernard Thompson
Directed by James Gilbert, Bernard Thompson & Dick Clement (All uncredited)
A BBC production.
Whatever Happened To The Likely Lads is available here: https://amzn.to/3GP0ZLK

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2660falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/184-how-does-that-make-you-feel--48725249
In How Does that Make You Feel? we visit a group of people who all share one thing in common, a therapist called Martha... oh, and a growing set of neuroses which appear to be overtaking their wholly imperfect lives.

As therapists go, Martha is reasonably compassionate, but deep down she's losing patience. It seems all her clients want to be something they are not, and it's driving them and her, out of their minds?

There's Richard Fallon MP, who's convinced promotion to the front bench is being denied him because of his obese son and a wife who lost all patience with him 20 years ago, Caroline, who thinks her child is a genius with an IQ way off the scale and Philip, who insists he isn't facing a crisis since his demotion from Good Morning Norfolk to a shopping channel.

Written by Shelagh Stephenson.
Produced by Eoin O'Callaghan.
Directed by Eoin O'Callaghan.
A BBC production.
How Does That Make You Feel is available here: https://bbc.in/3GxYmhs

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48725249Tue, 15 Feb 2022 19:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis time we review How Does That Make You Feel (Two epsiodes) In How Does that Make You Feel? we visit a group of people who all share one thing in common, a therapist called Martha... oh, and a growing set of neuroses which appear to be...
In How Does that Make You Feel? we visit a group of people who all share one thing in common, a therapist called Martha... oh, and a growing set of neuroses which appear to be overtaking their wholly imperfect lives.

As therapists go, Martha is reasonably compassionate, but deep down she's losing patience. It seems all her clients want to be something they are not, and it's driving them and her, out of their minds?

There's Richard Fallon MP, who's convinced promotion to the front bench is being denied him because of his obese son and a wife who lost all patience with him 20 years ago, Caroline, who thinks her child is a genius with an IQ way off the scale and Philip, who insists he isn't facing a crisis since his demotion from Good Morning Norfolk to a shopping channel.

Written by Shelagh Stephenson.
Produced by Eoin O'Callaghan.
Directed by Eoin O'Callaghan.
A BBC production.
How Does That Make You Feel is available here: https://bbc.in/3GxYmhs

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2731falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/183-avenue-5--48615713
Avenue 5 has been described as "set in the future, mostly in space."

On board the interplanetary cruise ship, the Avenue 5, a momentary loss of artificial gravity and accidental death of its chief engineer sends the titular vessel a few degrees off course.

It's estimated it will take the ship three years to return to Earth, and with only enough supplies to sustain her many passengers for the intended eight-week long cruise, the crew of the Avenue 5 must struggle to maintain order and return the craft safely.

Written by Armando Iannucci.
Produced by Various.
Directed by Armando Iannucci.
A Dundee production for HBO.
Avenue 5 is available here: https://bit.ly/3Gi9YoG

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48615713Tue, 08 Feb 2022 19:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis time we review Avenue 5 (Series 1 Episode 1) Avenue 5 has been described as "set in the future, mostly in space." On board the interplanetary cruise ship, the Avenue 5, a momentary loss of artificial gravity and accidental death of its...
Avenue 5 has been described as "set in the future, mostly in space."

On board the interplanetary cruise ship, the Avenue 5, a momentary loss of artificial gravity and accidental death of its chief engineer sends the titular vessel a few degrees off course.

It's estimated it will take the ship three years to return to Earth, and with only enough supplies to sustain her many passengers for the intended eight-week long cruise, the crew of the Avenue 5 must struggle to maintain order and return the craft safely.

Written by Armando Iannucci.
Produced by Various.
Directed by Armando Iannucci.
A Dundee production for HBO.
Avenue 5 is available here: https://bit.ly/3Gi9YoG

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.]]>2674falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/182-believe-it--48529531
Based on 'glimmers of truth', Believe It! is the bizarre, revealing and, most importantly, untrue celebrity radiography of Richard Wilson.

Celebrity autobiographies are everywhere. Richard Wilson has always said he'd never write one but he does narrate this series, weaving in and out of dramatised scenes from his fictional life story.

He plays a heavily exaggerated version of himself: a Scots actor and national treasure, unmarried, private, passionate about politics, theatre and Manchester United (all true), who's a confidant of the powerful and has survived childhood poverty, a drunken father, years of fruitless grind, too much success, addiction, charity work and fierce rivalry with Sean Connery and Ian McKellen (not true).

All the melodramatic staples of celebrity-autobiography are undercut by Richard's deadpan delivery.

Written by Jon Canter.
Produced by Clive Brill.
Directed by Clive Brill.
A Brill production for BBC Radio 4.
Believe It is available here: https://bbc.in/3fQfKmL

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48529531Tue, 01 Feb 2022 19:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis time we review Believe It (Series 4 Legacy) Based on 'glimmers of truth', Believe It! is the bizarre, revealing and, most importantly, untrue celebrity radiography of Richard Wilson. Celebrity autobiographies are everywhere. Richard Wilson...
Based on 'glimmers of truth', Believe It! is the bizarre, revealing and, most importantly, untrue celebrity radiography of Richard Wilson.

Celebrity autobiographies are everywhere. Richard Wilson has always said he'd never write one but he does narrate this series, weaving in and out of dramatised scenes from his fictional life story.

He plays a heavily exaggerated version of himself: a Scots actor and national treasure, unmarried, private, passionate about politics, theatre and Manchester United (all true), who's a confidant of the powerful and has survived childhood poverty, a drunken father, years of fruitless grind, too much success, addiction, charity work and fierce rivalry with Sean Connery and Ian McKellen (not true).

All the melodramatic staples of celebrity-autobiography are undercut by Richard's deadpan delivery.

Written by Jon Canter.
Produced by Clive Brill.
Directed by Clive Brill.
A Brill production for BBC Radio 4.
Believe It is available here: https://bbc.in/3fQfKmL

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2699falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/181-it-s-kevin--48426129
It's sketches, it's songs, it's characters, it's guests, it's a man who's old enough to know better mucking about, with help from a number of his comedy friends.

It's Kevin Eldon.

Bring you a song and dance number, The Incredible Moose Human, The Great Spagboletti, A Fictional Northern Man, John Lennon's Head, The Perspective Twins, some performance poetry, Wendy Wilson's White Coat Window On The World Of World Wide Wonders, a sketch with a doctor in it and Hitler, and we're still not halfway through the first episode.

Kevin said: "I have always liked chaffinches. The money I may receive from this show may well allow me to buy more pictures of chaffinches."

Written by Kevin Eldon, Jason Hazeley, Joel Morris, Arthur Mathews, Ali Crockatt, David Scott and Dan Maier.
Produced by Richard Webb and Mark Freeland.
Directed by Tim Kirkby and Al Campbell
A BBC production.
It's Kevin is available here: https://bit.ly/3tzTJQV

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48426129Tue, 25 Jan 2022 19:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis time we review It's Kevin (Series 1 Episode 4) It's sketches, it's songs, it's characters, it's guests, it's a man who's old enough to know better mucking about, with help from a number of his comedy friends. It's Kevin Eldon. Bring...
It's sketches, it's songs, it's characters, it's guests, it's a man who's old enough to know better mucking about, with help from a number of his comedy friends.

It's Kevin Eldon.

Bring you a song and dance number, The Incredible Moose Human, The Great Spagboletti, A Fictional Northern Man, John Lennon's Head, The Perspective Twins, some performance poetry, Wendy Wilson's White Coat Window On The World Of World Wide Wonders, a sketch with a doctor in it and Hitler, and we're still not halfway through the first episode.

Kevin said: "I have always liked chaffinches. The money I may receive from this show may well allow me to buy more pictures of chaffinches."

Written by Kevin Eldon, Jason Hazeley, Joel Morris, Arthur Mathews, Ali Crockatt, David Scott and Dan Maier.
Produced by Richard Webb and Mark Freeland.
Directed by Tim Kirkby and Al Campbell
A BBC production.
It's Kevin is available here: https://bit.ly/3tzTJQV

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2702falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/180-sophie-willan-s-guide-to-normality--48339468
Break out comedy star (as she was at the time) Sophie Willan comes to Radio 4 with an exciting stand-up series looking at what it is to be 'normal'.

Sophie grew up in and out of the Care System and had an unconventional childhood.

In this, her debut series she will get to grips with - and often challenge - our perception of 'the perfect normal life', shining a light on the reality of the British experience.

Written by Sophie Willan.
Produced by Suzy Grant.
A BBC Studios production.
Sophie Willan's Guide To Normality is available here: https://bbc.in/3FhNOlU

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48339468Tue, 18 Jan 2022 19:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis time we review Sophie Willan's Guide To Normality (Series 1 Episode 3 & 4) Break out comedy star (as she was at the time) Sophie Willan comes to Radio 4 with an exciting stand-up series looking at what it is to be 'normal'. Sophie grew...
Break out comedy star (as she was at the time) Sophie Willan comes to Radio 4 with an exciting stand-up series looking at what it is to be 'normal'.

Sophie grew up in and out of the Care System and had an unconventional childhood.

In this, her debut series she will get to grips with - and often challenge - our perception of 'the perfect normal life', shining a light on the reality of the British experience.

Written by Sophie Willan.
Produced by Suzy Grant.
A BBC Studios production.
Sophie Willan's Guide To Normality is available here: https://bbc.in/3FhNOlU

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2757falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/179-home--48252225
When new couple Peter and Katy and Katy's son John go on their first family holiday to France.

The plan is to bring back a tan, a few happy memories and six crates of vintage champagne but what they actually bring back is going to come as a big surprise.

Home follows the experience of Sami, a Syrian refugee who enters Britain illegally to claim asylum.

Living in with Peter, Katy and John while he waits for his application to be processed, Sami learns more than he expected about the people he's living with, himself, and his own family somewhere in Europe.

Written by Rufus Jones
Produced by Adam Tandy, Alan Marke, Jim Reid, Gary Matsell, Rufus Jones and Lydia Thatcher
Directed By David Sant, Timothy Wood and Andy Lumsden
A Channel X Jantaculum production for Channel 4.
Home is available here: https://bit.ly/3pRiFkB

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48252225Tue, 11 Jan 2022 19:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorHome (Series 1 Episode 1) When new couple Peter and Katy and Katy's son John go on their first family holiday to France. The plan is to bring back a tan, a few happy memories and six crates of vintage champagne but what they actually bring back...
When new couple Peter and Katy and Katy's son John go on their first family holiday to France.

The plan is to bring back a tan, a few happy memories and six crates of vintage champagne but what they actually bring back is going to come as a big surprise.

Home follows the experience of Sami, a Syrian refugee who enters Britain illegally to claim asylum.

Living in with Peter, Katy and John while he waits for his application to be processed, Sami learns more than he expected about the people he's living with, himself, and his own family somewhere in Europe.

Written by Rufus Jones
Produced by Adam Tandy, Alan Marke, Jim Reid, Gary Matsell, Rufus Jones and Lydia Thatcher
Directed By David Sant, Timothy Wood and Andy Lumsden
A Channel X Jantaculum production for Channel 4.
Home is available here: https://bit.ly/3pRiFkB

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2716falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/178-two-doors-down--48156484
Comedy centred around a couple and their insufferable neighbours.

Latimer Crescent residents Eric and Beth Baird are friendly, warm, and perhaps a little too polite for their own good.

They're more than happy to welcome son Ian and his boyfriend into their home; but neighbours Cathy, Colin and Christine regularly make their presence felt in a far more forceful manner.

Christine is a moaner, hypochondriac and freeloading single mother who's kept now-adult daughter Sophie on a short-lead of guilt trips for many years. The thoroughly pleasant Sophie finds her mother intensely embarrassing but gradually finds her own voice - and not without Beth's help.

These are the trials and tribulations of living on a suburban street with people you'd often much rather do without.

Written by Simon Carlyle and Gregor Sharp
Produced by Catherine Gosling Fuller, Margot Gavan Duffy, Jacqueline Sinclair, Steven Canny, Ewan Angus, Myfanwy Moore, Chris Sussman, Simon Carlyle and more
Directed By Simon Hynd, Sasha Ransome, Ben Gosling Fuller, Mark Ash and Carol-Anne Henderson
A BBC Studios Comedy production.
Two Doors Down is available here: https://bbc.in/3z2kVsh

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48156484Tue, 04 Jan 2022 19:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorTwo Doors Down (Series 5 Episode 1) Comedy centred around a couple and their insufferable neighbours. Latimer Crescent residents Eric and Beth Baird are friendly, warm, and perhaps a little too polite for their own good. They're more than...
Comedy centred around a couple and their insufferable neighbours.

Latimer Crescent residents Eric and Beth Baird are friendly, warm, and perhaps a little too polite for their own good.

They're more than happy to welcome son Ian and his boyfriend into their home; but neighbours Cathy, Colin and Christine regularly make their presence felt in a far more forceful manner.

Christine is a moaner, hypochondriac and freeloading single mother who's kept now-adult daughter Sophie on a short-lead of guilt trips for many years. The thoroughly pleasant Sophie finds her mother intensely embarrassing but gradually finds her own voice - and not without Beth's help.

These are the trials and tribulations of living on a suburban street with people you'd often much rather do without.

Written by Simon Carlyle and Gregor Sharp
Produced by Catherine Gosling Fuller, Margot Gavan Duffy, Jacqueline Sinclair, Steven Canny, Ewan Angus, Myfanwy Moore, Chris Sussman, Simon Carlyle and more
Directed By Simon Hynd, Sasha Ransome, Ben Gosling Fuller, Mark Ash and Carol-Anne Henderson
A BBC Studios Comedy production.
Two Doors Down is available here: https://bbc.in/3z2kVsh

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2725falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/177-the-goon-show--48082748
The Goon Show, originally under the title of Crazy People focused on the bizarre experiments of Prof Osric Pureheart, played by Michael Bentine working alongside Peter Sellers, Spike Milligan and Harry Secombe.

After two series, Bentine left the show and as a result, a new title character was created - Neddie Seagoon.

Episodes tended to involve Neddie trying to achieve some kind of greatness, often with the help of the idiotic but happy Eccles and the young Bluebottle.

However, always willing to stop them and make as much money as possible were the impoverished Hercules Grytpype-Thynne and his French assistant Count Jim Moriarty. Also featuring alongside were the disgraced and flatulent Major Dennis Bloodnok, and elderly couple Henry Crun and Minnie Bannister.

Written by Spike Milligan, Larry Stephens and Eric Sykes
Produced by Dennis Main Wilson, Peter Eton, Pat Dixon, Charles Chilton, Roy Speer, Tom Ronald and John Browell
A BBC production.
The Goon Show is available here: https://bbc.in/3mb3v7K

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48082748Tue, 28 Dec 2021 19:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThe Goon Show (Series 7 Episode 1) The Goon Show, originally under the title of Crazy People focused on the bizarre experiments of Prof Osric Pureheart, played by Michael Bentine working alongside Peter Sellers, Spike Milligan and Harry Secombe....
The Goon Show, originally under the title of Crazy People focused on the bizarre experiments of Prof Osric Pureheart, played by Michael Bentine working alongside Peter Sellers, Spike Milligan and Harry Secombe.

After two series, Bentine left the show and as a result, a new title character was created - Neddie Seagoon.

Episodes tended to involve Neddie trying to achieve some kind of greatness, often with the help of the idiotic but happy Eccles and the young Bluebottle.

However, always willing to stop them and make as much money as possible were the impoverished Hercules Grytpype-Thynne and his French assistant Count Jim Moriarty. Also featuring alongside were the disgraced and flatulent Major Dennis Bloodnok, and elderly couple Henry Crun and Minnie Bannister.

Written by Spike Milligan, Larry Stephens and Eric Sykes
Produced by Dennis Main Wilson, Peter Eton, Pat Dixon, Charles Chilton, Roy Speer, Tom Ronald and John Browell
A BBC production.
The Goon Show is available here: https://bbc.in/3mb3v7K

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2723falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/176-rising-damp--48011245
An unnamed northern university town is home to Rupert Rigsby, landlord of arguably the seediest, most run-down boarding house that England has to offer.

His unlucky tenants include Ruth Jones, an administrator at the university; Alan, a medical student; and Philip, who is studying town and country planning.

Between them, Alan and Philip are the focus and foil of the majority of Rigsby's many prejudices, usually at the expense of his dignity and standing in the eyes of Miss Jones, with whom he is hopelessly and pathetically in love.

Written by Eric Chappell
Produced by Ronnie Baxter and Vernon Lawrence
Directed By Ronnie Baxter and Vernon Lawrence
A Yorkshire Television production.
Rising Damp is available here: https://amzn.to/3IORJti and https://apple.co/3ymbunp

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48011245Tue, 21 Dec 2021 19:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorRising Damp (Series 2 Episode 8) An unnamed northern university town is home to Rupert Rigsby, landlord of arguably the seediest, most run-down boarding house that England has to offer. His unlucky tenants include Ruth Jones, an administrator...
An unnamed northern university town is home to Rupert Rigsby, landlord of arguably the seediest, most run-down boarding house that England has to offer.

His unlucky tenants include Ruth Jones, an administrator at the university; Alan, a medical student; and Philip, who is studying town and country planning.

Between them, Alan and Philip are the focus and foil of the majority of Rigsby's many prejudices, usually at the expense of his dignity and standing in the eyes of Miss Jones, with whom he is hopelessly and pathetically in love.

Written by Eric Chappell
Produced by Ronnie Baxter and Vernon Lawrence
Directed By Ronnie Baxter and Vernon Lawrence
A Yorkshire Television production.
Rising Damp is available here: https://amzn.to/3IORJti and https://apple.co/3ymbunp

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2738falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/175-rev--47891628
Rev is a contemporary sitcom about the daily frustrations and moral conflicts of Reverend Adam Smallbone - a Church of England Vicar who was 'promoted' from a sleepy rural parish to the busy, inner-city world of St Saviour's, in East London.

Adam's long-suffering wife - does her best to support him, but she's got her own career as a solicitor to worry about. And she is no-one's idea of a conventional vicar's wife.

Anybody can, and does, come into St Saviour's - and into Adam's life - from scheming MPs trying to educate their children on the cheap to Colin, a heavy drinking, unemployable lost soul who is one of Adam's most devoted parishioner.

Written by James Wood, Tom Hollander, Sam Bain
Produced by Hannah Pescod
Directed By
A bigtalk production for BBC.
Rev is available here: https://amzn.to/30gKEAj

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47891628Tue, 14 Dec 2021 19:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorRev (Series 2 Episode 2) Rev is a contemporary sitcom about the daily frustrations and moral conflicts of Reverend Adam Smallbone - a Church of England Vicar who was 'promoted' from a sleepy rural parish to the busy, inner-city world of St...
Rev is a contemporary sitcom about the daily frustrations and moral conflicts of Reverend Adam Smallbone - a Church of England Vicar who was 'promoted' from a sleepy rural parish to the busy, inner-city world of St Saviour's, in East London.

Adam's long-suffering wife - does her best to support him, but she's got her own career as a solicitor to worry about. And she is no-one's idea of a conventional vicar's wife.

Anybody can, and does, come into St Saviour's - and into Adam's life - from scheming MPs trying to educate their children on the cheap to Colin, a heavy drinking, unemployable lost soul who is one of Adam's most devoted parishioner.

Written by James Wood, Tom Hollander, Sam Bain
Produced by Hannah Pescod
Directed By
A bigtalk production for BBC.
Rev is available here: https://amzn.to/30gKEAj

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2643falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/174-the-outlaws--47823833
The Outlaws follows seven strangers from different walks of life forced together to complete Community Payback sentences in Bristol.

At first, they seem like archetypes we can easily pigeon hole but gradually we see behind their façades, understand their hidden depths and what made them the people they are today. We are reminded that no one is all good or all bad. Everyone has a story.

As their unlikely new friendships intersect with their complicated private lives, the offenders must unite to protect one of their own from Bristol's most dangerous criminal gang. The show is part crime thriller, character study, and a state-of-the-nation commentary - with humour and heart.

Written by Stephen Merchant, Elgin James, Geoff Norcott, Fraser Steele, Will Truefitt, Chris Hale and Ross Willis
Produced by Nickie Sault, Stephen Merchant, Luke Alkin, Kenton Allen, Matthew Justice, Rhodri Thomas, Kate Daughton, Tanya Qureshi and more
Directed By Stephen Merchant, John Butler, Toby Sherborne and Jake Rollins
A bigtalk / Four Eyes co-production for BBC.
The Outlaws is available here: https://bbc.in/3d946Sp

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47823833Tue, 07 Dec 2021 19:08:18 +0000Shane O'ConnorThe Outlaws (Series 1 Episode 1) The Outlaws follows seven strangers from different walks of life forced together to complete Community Payback sentences in Bristol. At first, they seem like archetypes we can easily pigeon hole but gradually...
The Outlaws follows seven strangers from different walks of life forced together to complete Community Payback sentences in Bristol.

At first, they seem like archetypes we can easily pigeon hole but gradually we see behind their façades, understand their hidden depths and what made them the people they are today. We are reminded that no one is all good or all bad. Everyone has a story.

As their unlikely new friendships intersect with their complicated private lives, the offenders must unite to protect one of their own from Bristol's most dangerous criminal gang. The show is part crime thriller, character study, and a state-of-the-nation commentary - with humour and heart.

Written by Stephen Merchant, Elgin James, Geoff Norcott, Fraser Steele, Will Truefitt, Chris Hale and Ross Willis
Produced by Nickie Sault, Stephen Merchant, Luke Alkin, Kenton Allen, Matthew Justice, Rhodri Thomas, Kate Daughton, Tanya Qureshi and more
Directed By Stephen Merchant, John Butler, Toby Sherborne and Jake Rollins
A bigtalk / Four Eyes co-production for BBC.
The Outlaws is available here: https://bbc.in/3d946Sp

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Tuesday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2749falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/173-the-tuckers--47722294
Set in the south Wales valleys, The Tuckers tells the story of a family of chancers, low on cash but high on spirit - determined to survive through any means necessary. They run a catering business, not always successfully, and a few things on the side, not always legit.

Peggy rules the roost, with Glyn, her son, next in command. His children, Billy and Bobby, are never far from trouble, and Bobby's ex-wife, Natalie lives next door - with Shaks, their young daughter who has an appetite for mayhem.

The family bicker endlessly amongst themselves, but if you cross one Tucker, you cross them all, and you'll think twice about crossing them again (especially Grampa Murphy, who spends most of his time in an outside toilet, armed with a gun).

The series examines the love/hate relationship between members of the clan, ultimately proving that blood is thicker than water.

Written by Steve Speirs and Owen Bell
Produced by Owen Bell, Steven Canny and James Dehaviland
Directed By Ian FitzGibbon and Geraint Havard
A BBC Studios Production.
The Tuckers is available here: https://bbc.in/3CJFQkk

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47722294Tue, 30 Nov 2021 19:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThe Tuckers (Series 1 Episode) Set in the south Wales valleys, The Tuckers tells the story of a family of chancers, low on cash but high on spirit - determined to survive through any means necessary. They run a catering business, not always...
Set in the south Wales valleys, The Tuckers tells the story of a family of chancers, low on cash but high on spirit - determined to survive through any means necessary. They run a catering business, not always successfully, and a few things on the side, not always legit.

Peggy rules the roost, with Glyn, her son, next in command. His children, Billy and Bobby, are never far from trouble, and Bobby's ex-wife, Natalie lives next door - with Shaks, their young daughter who has an appetite for mayhem.

The family bicker endlessly amongst themselves, but if you cross one Tucker, you cross them all, and you'll think twice about crossing them again (especially Grampa Murphy, who spends most of his time in an outside toilet, armed with a gun).

The series examines the love/hate relationship between members of the clan, ultimately proving that blood is thicker than water.

Written by Steve Speirs and Owen Bell
Produced by Owen Bell, Steven Canny and James Dehaviland
Directed By Ian FitzGibbon and Geraint Havard
A BBC Studios Production.
The Tuckers is available here: https://bbc.in/3CJFQkk

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2669falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/172-lines-from-my-grandfather-s-forehead--47617833
Lines From My Grandfather's Forehead, is a British comedy radio sketch show, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1971.

Two series of eight episodes were broadcast and in addition, there were two special episodes. A Christmas special, entitled Lines From My Grandfather Christmas's Forehead and a compilation of selected items from past editions, under the title Just A Few Lines From My Grandfather's Forehead.

The show was created by BBC Radio producer John Fawcett Wilson and Ronnie Barker and featured Barker together with Terence Brady and Pauline Yates and Gordon Langford at the piano. Some editions also featured guitarist Dick Abell.

Each programme was a sequence of comedy sketches, monologues and comic songs. The writers were credited on each recording but the items they wrote were not named, so identifying the author of a particular item is difficult.

Among the writers was Gerald Wiley, which was a pseudonym used by Ronnie Barker to submit material without using his own name whilst other writers included Jim Eldridge, Spike Milligan and Harold Pinter.

The then director of programmes for BBC Radio, Gerard Mansell, described the show as having a "very individual type of humour, quite unlike that of any other TV or radio programme".

Written by Terence Brady, Donald Churchill, David Climie, John Graham, Charles McKay, Spike Milligan, Peter Spence, Roger Till & Gerald Wiley.
Produced by John Fawcett Wilson
A BBC Radio Production.
Lines From My Grandfather's Forehead is available here: https://amzn.to/2YlosEb

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47617833Tue, 23 Nov 2021 10:57:41 +0000Shane O'ConnorLines From My Grandfather's Forehead (From 15th March 1971) Lines From My Grandfather's Forehead, is a British comedy radio sketch show, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1971. Two series of eight episodes were broadcast and in addition, there...
Lines From My Grandfather's Forehead, is a British comedy radio sketch show, first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1971.

Two series of eight episodes were broadcast and in addition, there were two special episodes. A Christmas special, entitled Lines From My Grandfather Christmas's Forehead and a compilation of selected items from past editions, under the title Just A Few Lines From My Grandfather's Forehead.

The show was created by BBC Radio producer John Fawcett Wilson and Ronnie Barker and featured Barker together with Terence Brady and Pauline Yates and Gordon Langford at the piano. Some editions also featured guitarist Dick Abell.

Each programme was a sequence of comedy sketches, monologues and comic songs. The writers were credited on each recording but the items they wrote were not named, so identifying the author of a particular item is difficult.

Among the writers was Gerald Wiley, which was a pseudonym used by Ronnie Barker to submit material without using his own name whilst other writers included Jim Eldridge, Spike Milligan and Harold Pinter.

The then director of programmes for BBC Radio, Gerard Mansell, described the show as having a "very individual type of humour, quite unlike that of any other TV or radio programme".

Written by Terence Brady, Donald Churchill, David Climie, John Graham, Charles McKay, Spike Milligan, Peter Spence, Roger Till & Gerald Wiley.
Produced by John Fawcett Wilson
A BBC Radio Production.
Lines From My Grandfather's Forehead is available here: https://amzn.to/2YlosEb

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2699falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/171-saxondale--47349842
Saxondale is a sitcom by Steve Coogan and Neil Maclennan which focuses on the life of Tommy Saxondale (Coogan). Tommy is a world-travelled ex-roadie with anger-management issues who owns a pest control business in Stevenage.

Saxondale regards himself as a maverick and a free-thinker and takes every opportunity to impart his wisdom to his young assistant Raymond. As well as Pharaoh ants, mice and occasionally moths, during the sitcom Tommy has to battle with snowboarders, pigeon-loving activists... and people who talk about property prices.

While Tommy enjoys talking about himself, training Raymond in the mysterious and deadly art of pest control, and sharing a few life lessons, Raymond has little choice but to listen. He lives in Tommy's spare room and gets an uncomfortably close view of Tommy and Magz's sparky relationship.

Vicky, the receptionist who hands out the jobs for Tommy's Stealth Pest Control operation, takes 'banter' to the next level, knowing exactly how to provoke instant frustration... which inevitably results in a few more visits to the anger management course for Tommy.

Written by Steve Coogan & Neil Maclennan.
Produced by Ted Dowd.
Directed by Matt Lipsey & John Henderson
A Baby Cow Production for BBC.
Saxondale is available here: https://amzn.to/3m4lGwf

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47349842Mon, 08 Nov 2021 15:00:19 +0000Shane O'ConnorSaxondale (Series 2 Episode 1) Saxondale is a sitcom by Steve Coogan and Neil Maclennan which focuses on the life of Tommy Saxondale (Coogan). Tommy is a world-travelled ex-roadie with anger-management issues who owns a pest control business in...
Saxondale is a sitcom by Steve Coogan and Neil Maclennan which focuses on the life of Tommy Saxondale (Coogan). Tommy is a world-travelled ex-roadie with anger-management issues who owns a pest control business in Stevenage.

Saxondale regards himself as a maverick and a free-thinker and takes every opportunity to impart his wisdom to his young assistant Raymond. As well as Pharaoh ants, mice and occasionally moths, during the sitcom Tommy has to battle with snowboarders, pigeon-loving activists... and people who talk about property prices.

While Tommy enjoys talking about himself, training Raymond in the mysterious and deadly art of pest control, and sharing a few life lessons, Raymond has little choice but to listen. He lives in Tommy's spare room and gets an uncomfortably close view of Tommy and Magz's sparky relationship.

Vicky, the receptionist who hands out the jobs for Tommy's Stealth Pest Control operation, takes 'banter' to the next level, knowing exactly how to provoke instant frustration... which inevitably results in a few more visits to the anger management course for Tommy.

Written by Steve Coogan & Neil Maclennan.
Produced by Ted Dowd.
Directed by Matt Lipsey & John Henderson
A Baby Cow Production for BBC.
Saxondale is available here: https://amzn.to/3m4lGwf

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2755truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/170-sam-simmons-is-not-a-people-person--47231240
Comedian. Writer. Ex-Zoo Keeper. Bird Watcher. Definitely NOT a people person.

Sam and Henry are making a series about birds, and every week - armed with Sam's 'Big Book of Birds' they're looking for a different one.

Sadly, and despite Henry's very best efforts, Sam keeps being distracted by the people they run into. Each encounter sparks an investigation into Sam's past, because once they've sorted out his issues, then they'll really be able to focus on the bird-watching.

Written by Sam Simmons.
Produced by Joe Nunnery & Alexandra Smith.
A BBC Radio Production.
Sam Simmons Is Not A People Person is available here: https://bbc.in/3aIQMmr

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47231240Mon, 01 Nov 2021 15:00:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorSam Simmons Is Not A People Person (Series 1 Episodes 1&2) Comedian. Writer. Ex-Zoo Keeper. Bird Watcher. Definitely NOT a people person. Sam and Henry are making a series about birds, and every week - armed with Sam's 'Big Book of Birds'...
Comedian. Writer. Ex-Zoo Keeper. Bird Watcher. Definitely NOT a people person.

Sam and Henry are making a series about birds, and every week - armed with Sam's 'Big Book of Birds' they're looking for a different one.

Sadly, and despite Henry's very best efforts, Sam keeps being distracted by the people they run into. Each encounter sparks an investigation into Sam's past, because once they've sorted out his issues, then they'll really be able to focus on the bird-watching.

Written by Sam Simmons.
Produced by Joe Nunnery & Alexandra Smith.
A BBC Radio Production.
Sam Simmons Is Not A People Person is available here: https://bbc.in/3aIQMmr

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2762falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/169-alma-s-not-normal--47115259
Alma's Not Normal follows Boltonian wild-child Alma Nuthall and her family of eccentric, unruly women.

With no qualifications and a rebellious streak a mile wide, Alma decides to become an escort to support her dreams of becoming a star and leaving Bolton. Meanwhile, Alma's mother Lin battles with both her addiction to heroin and her troubled relationship with her own mother Joan with the same chaotic fervour. Having only just discovered feminism and sexual liberation, Alma's vampish Grandma Joan, must contend with her daughter suddenly moving in with her.

Alma's Not Normal offers a bitingly funny and unflinching take on class, sexuality, mental health and substance abuse. It celebrates women dealing with the hand they were dealt while doggedly pursing their dreams. It explores the darker side of life but with genuine warmth and laugh out loud result.

Written by Sophie Willan.
Directed by Andrew Chaplin.
Produced by Gill Isles.
An Expectation Production For BBC.
Alma's Not Normal is available here: https://bbc.in/3uItqXm

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47115259Mon, 25 Oct 2021 14:00:17 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Alma's Not Normal (Series 1 Episode 1) Alma's Not Normal follows Boltonian wild-child Alma Nuthall and her family of eccentric, unruly women. With no qualifications and a rebellious streak a mile wide, Alma decides to become...
Alma's Not Normal follows Boltonian wild-child Alma Nuthall and her family of eccentric, unruly women.

With no qualifications and a rebellious streak a mile wide, Alma decides to become an escort to support her dreams of becoming a star and leaving Bolton. Meanwhile, Alma's mother Lin battles with both her addiction to heroin and her troubled relationship with her own mother Joan with the same chaotic fervour. Having only just discovered feminism and sexual liberation, Alma's vampish Grandma Joan, must contend with her daughter suddenly moving in with her.

Alma's Not Normal offers a bitingly funny and unflinching take on class, sexuality, mental health and substance abuse. It celebrates women dealing with the hand they were dealt while doggedly pursing their dreams. It explores the darker side of life but with genuine warmth and laugh out loud result.

Written by Sophie Willan.
Directed by Andrew Chaplin.
Produced by Gill Isles.
An Expectation Production For BBC.
Alma's Not Normal is available here: https://bbc.in/3uItqXm

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2679falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/168-nighty-night--47013944
Jill is a monstrously self-involved beautician whose husband, Terry, is dying of cancer.

Her reaction to such terrible news is to tell everyone that Terry has died and pursue her neighbour, Don, a doctor whose wife is suffering from MS.
She commits murder but successfully frames her admirer - a man called Glen who is subsequently detained in an institution for the mentally insane.

Meanwhile Jill is planning to move on with her life, but first she must visit Glen and relieve him of the burden of his chip and pin number.
However, Jill's one objective remains - to find Don and make him hers.

She hooks her caravan to her bright pink jeep and sets off to north Cornwall, where Cath and Don are currently working through their marital problems at the Trees Therapy Centre.

Written by Julia Davis.
Directed by Tony Dow and Dewi Humphreys
Produced by Ted Dowd and Alison MacPhail.
A Baby Cow Production for BBC Three.
Nighty Night is available here: https://bbc.in/3uItqXm

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47013944Mon, 18 Oct 2021 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Nighty Night (Series 2 Episode 6) Jill is a monstrously self-involved beautician whose husband, Terry, is dying of cancer. Her reaction to such terrible news is to tell everyone that Terry has died and pursue her neighbour,...
Jill is a monstrously self-involved beautician whose husband, Terry, is dying of cancer.

Her reaction to such terrible news is to tell everyone that Terry has died and pursue her neighbour, Don, a doctor whose wife is suffering from MS.
She commits murder but successfully frames her admirer - a man called Glen who is subsequently detained in an institution for the mentally insane.

Meanwhile Jill is planning to move on with her life, but first she must visit Glen and relieve him of the burden of his chip and pin number.
However, Jill's one objective remains - to find Don and make him hers.

She hooks her caravan to her bright pink jeep and sets off to north Cornwall, where Cath and Don are currently working through their marital problems at the Trees Therapy Centre.

Written by Julia Davis.
Directed by Tony Dow and Dewi Humphreys
Produced by Ted Dowd and Alison MacPhail.
A Baby Cow Production for BBC Three.
Nighty Night is available here: https://bbc.in/3uItqXm

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2691falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/167-the-cleaner--46919209
Paul 'Wicky' Wickstead, is a state-certified cleaning technician with a very special field of work: as a crime scene cleaner he is responsible for the removal of any signs of death.

Wicky works for Shropshire-based cleaning contractors Lausen and is usually found, together with his baby-blue pickup truck, at crime scenes after the police have concluded their detective work.

Armed with chemicals, scrubbing brushes and cleaning rags, Wicky removes the gruesome mess at the scene of the crime. When carrying out his duties, he stumbles across the strangest of people: from the victim's relatives, employers, neighbours and acquaintances, to occasionally even the murderers themselves. And because he's a sociable type, he sometimes gossips more than he cleans.

Written by Greg Davies.
Directed by Tom Marshall
Produced by Sam Ward.
A Studio Hamburg UK Production for BBC.
The Cleaner is available here: https://bbc.in/3zT1ssU

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46919209Mon, 11 Oct 2021 14:00:06 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review The Cleaner (Series 1 Episode 2) Paul 'Wicky' Wickstead, is a state-certified cleaning technician with a very special field of work: as a crime scene cleaner he is responsible for the removal of any signs of death. Wicky...
Paul 'Wicky' Wickstead, is a state-certified cleaning technician with a very special field of work: as a crime scene cleaner he is responsible for the removal of any signs of death.

Wicky works for Shropshire-based cleaning contractors Lausen and is usually found, together with his baby-blue pickup truck, at crime scenes after the police have concluded their detective work.

Armed with chemicals, scrubbing brushes and cleaning rags, Wicky removes the gruesome mess at the scene of the crime. When carrying out his duties, he stumbles across the strangest of people: from the victim's relatives, employers, neighbours and acquaintances, to occasionally even the murderers themselves. And because he's a sociable type, he sometimes gossips more than he cleans.

Written by Greg Davies.
Directed by Tom Marshall
Produced by Sam Ward.
A Studio Hamburg UK Production for BBC.
The Cleaner is available here: https://bbc.in/3zT1ssU

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.]]>2707falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/166-this-is-jinsy--46708591
This Is Jinsy started life as a pilot on BBC Three, but has now been turned into a full show by Sky.

The series follows Arbiter Maven (the 17th Arbiter and 'Wearer of the Hat') and Operative Sporall (nice hair and 'Wearer of the Beige Suit') as they keep a close eye on the 791 residents of Jinsy from the Great Tower in the parish of Veen.

Life on the island is rather Orwellian: each colourful member of the community is monitored by a surveillance system of tessellators, from local folk dribbler Melody Lane to weather monk Tracee Henge.

The tessellators include video cameras for surveillance, but also little screens to allow the residents to watch important island events, such as the tri-annual island cow wash (live from Glotters field). Additionally, they include a handy slot for paying fines, and a sphincter nozzle for product and pill downloads.

Notably, each episode of This Is Jinsy features a notable guest star actor. Some of the biggest names in comedy - from Stephen Fry to Olivia Colman have appeared in the show.

Written by Chris Bran and Justin Chubb.
Directed by Matt Lipsey
Produced by James Dean, Chris Carey and Margot Gavan Duffy.
A Welded Tandem Picture Company Production for Sky.
This Is Jinsy is available here: https://amzn.to/2XtJpMC

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46708591Mon, 27 Sep 2021 14:36:01 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review This Is Jinsy (Series 1 Episode 1) This Is Jinsy started life as a pilot on BBC Three, but has now been turned into a full show by Sky. The series follows Arbiter Maven (the 17th Arbiter and 'Wearer of the Hat') and...
This Is Jinsy started life as a pilot on BBC Three, but has now been turned into a full show by Sky.

The series follows Arbiter Maven (the 17th Arbiter and 'Wearer of the Hat') and Operative Sporall (nice hair and 'Wearer of the Beige Suit') as they keep a close eye on the 791 residents of Jinsy from the Great Tower in the parish of Veen.

Life on the island is rather Orwellian: each colourful member of the community is monitored by a surveillance system of tessellators, from local folk dribbler Melody Lane to weather monk Tracee Henge.

The tessellators include video cameras for surveillance, but also little screens to allow the residents to watch important island events, such as the tri-annual island cow wash (live from Glotters field). Additionally, they include a handy slot for paying fines, and a sphincter nozzle for product and pill downloads.

Notably, each episode of This Is Jinsy features a notable guest star actor. Some of the biggest names in comedy - from Stephen Fry to Olivia Colman have appeared in the show.

Written by Chris Bran and Justin Chubb.
Directed by Matt Lipsey
Produced by James Dean, Chris Carey and Margot Gavan Duffy.
A Welded Tandem Picture Company Production for Sky.
This Is Jinsy is available here: https://amzn.to/2XtJpMC

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2705falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/165-continuity--46591733
A continuity announcer's booth can be a lonely place - especially on the late shift, when you've barely seen your wife and children for a week.

But this Radio 4 continuity announcer is a consummate professional, and he's not going to let his own insignificant little problems get in the way of everybody else's listening pleasure - especially when there are so many exciting programmes coming up for him to describe to listeners.

Alistair McGowan stars as the continuity announcer brooding on the escalating disasters of his private and professional life at the same time as attempting to give listeners a preview of the programmes on offer in the coming week on Radio 4.

Written by Hugh Rycroft.
Produced by Frank Stirling & David Spicer.
A BBC Production.
Continuity may one day be available here: https://bbc.in/2XkftTj

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46591733Mon, 20 Sep 2021 14:00:04 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review Continuity (Series 1 Episodes 5 & 6) A continuity announcer's booth can be a lonely place - especially on the late shift, when you've barely seen your wife and children for a week. But this Radio 4 continuity announcer is a...
A continuity announcer's booth can be a lonely place - especially on the late shift, when you've barely seen your wife and children for a week.

But this Radio 4 continuity announcer is a consummate professional, and he's not going to let his own insignificant little problems get in the way of everybody else's listening pleasure - especially when there are so many exciting programmes coming up for him to describe to listeners.

Alistair McGowan stars as the continuity announcer brooding on the escalating disasters of his private and professional life at the same time as attempting to give listeners a preview of the programmes on offer in the coming week on Radio 4.

Written by Hugh Rycroft.
Produced by Frank Stirling & David Spicer.
A BBC Production.
Continuity may one day be available here: https://bbc.in/2XkftTj

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2720falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/164-blackadder-goes-forth--46497893
Blackadder Goes Forth is set in 1917 on the Western Front in the trenches of World War I.

Captain Edmund Blackadder (Rowan Atkinson) is a professional soldier in the British Army who, until the outbreak of the Great War, has enjoyed a relatively danger-free existence fighting natives who were usually "two feet tall and armed with dried grass".

Finding himself trapped in the trenches with another "big push" planned, his concern is to avoid being sent over the top to certain death.

His comrades in arms are his second-in-command, idealistic upper-class Edwardian twit Lieutenant George St Barleigh (Hugh Laurie) and their profoundly stupid but dogged batman Private S. Baldrick (Tony Robinson).

Rather than the Germans, who remain generally unseen, Blackadder's nemeses come in the form of his superior, the eccentric General Melchett (Stephen Fry) who rallies his troops from a French château 35 miles from the front, and Melchett's bureaucratic assistant, Captain Kevin Darling (Tim McInnerny).

Written by Richard Curtis, Ben Elton and Rowan Atkinson.
Produced by Mandie Fletcher, Martin Shardlow and Richard Boden.
A BBC tv Production.
Blackadder is available here: https://bbc.in/38L9c5m

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46497893Mon, 13 Sep 2021 14:00:15 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - (Series 4 Episode 6) Blackadder Goes Forth is set in 1917 on the Western Front in the trenches of World War I. Captain Edmund Blackadder (Rowan Atkinson) is a professional soldier in the British Army who, until the...
Blackadder Goes Forth is set in 1917 on the Western Front in the trenches of World War I.

Captain Edmund Blackadder (Rowan Atkinson) is a professional soldier in the British Army who, until the outbreak of the Great War, has enjoyed a relatively danger-free existence fighting natives who were usually "two feet tall and armed with dried grass".

Finding himself trapped in the trenches with another "big push" planned, his concern is to avoid being sent over the top to certain death.

His comrades in arms are his second-in-command, idealistic upper-class Edwardian twit Lieutenant George St Barleigh (Hugh Laurie) and their profoundly stupid but dogged batman Private S. Baldrick (Tony Robinson).

Rather than the Germans, who remain generally unseen, Blackadder's nemeses come in the form of his superior, the eccentric General Melchett (Stephen Fry) who rallies his troops from a French château 35 miles from the front, and Melchett's bureaucratic assistant, Captain Kevin Darling (Tim McInnerny).

Written by Richard Curtis, Ben Elton and Rowan Atkinson.
Produced by Mandie Fletcher, Martin Shardlow and Richard Boden.
A BBC tv Production.
Blackadder is available here: https://bbc.in/38L9c5m

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2720falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/163-hobby-bobbies--46383825
Hobby Bobbies is a sitcom about community policing from the team behind The Music Teacher, Dave Against The Machine and 15 Minute Musicals.

Nigel is probably Britain’s longest serving Community Police Support Officer, and Geoff is probably the laziest. They make quite a team.

Written by the acerbic voice over who commentates on the twists and turns of the long running cooking show 'Come Dine With Me' (as well as appearing in People Like Us, Armstrong and Miller and The Smoking Room) it features the talents of Richie Webb (Horrible Histories) and Slade's Noddy Holder.

Written by Dave Lamb.
Produced by Steve Doherty.
A Top Dog Production for BBC.
Hobby Bobbies is available here: https://bbc.in/3BmA8V4

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46383825Mon, 06 Sep 2021 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Hobby Bobbies (Series 1 Episode 1) Hobby Bobbies is a sitcom about community policing from the team behind The Music Teacher, Dave Against The Machine and 15 Minute Musicals. Nigel is probably Britain’s longest serving...
Hobby Bobbies is a sitcom about community policing from the team behind The Music Teacher, Dave Against The Machine and 15 Minute Musicals.

Nigel is probably Britain’s longest serving Community Police Support Officer, and Geoff is probably the laziest. They make quite a team.

Written by the acerbic voice over who commentates on the twists and turns of the long running cooking show 'Come Dine With Me' (as well as appearing in People Like Us, Armstrong and Miller and The Smoking Room) it features the talents of Richie Webb (Horrible Histories) and Slade's Noddy Holder.

Written by Dave Lamb.
Produced by Steve Doherty.
A Top Dog Production for BBC.
Hobby Bobbies is available here: https://bbc.in/3BmA8V4

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2720falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/162-limmy-s-home-made-show--46296792
Limmy returns with a new helping of his distinctive brand of comedy and this time he has gone completely solo.

Self-shot in his home and out and about in locations around his native Glasgow. Punctuated by techno versions of familiar ditties, Limmy's Homemade Show features scenes and musings which often seem to be rooted in the mundane - until the funnyman adds his own particular twists.

The series takes DIY comedy to a new level. There's a cast of just one, with Limmy playing multiple parts and capturing his off-kilter contemplations, scenarios and stories on a tripod-mounted camera in his home and at locations around his native city.

Written by Brian Limond.
Directed By Brian Limond.
Produced by Brian Limond.
A Permo Production for BBC Scotland.
Limmy's Homemade Show is available here: https://bbc.in/3D59IJj

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46296792Mon, 30 Aug 2021 14:00:18 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Limmy's Home Made Show (Episode 3) Limmy returns with a new helping of his distinctive brand of comedy and this time he has gone completely solo. Self-shot in his home and out and about in locations around his native...
Limmy returns with a new helping of his distinctive brand of comedy and this time he has gone completely solo.

Self-shot in his home and out and about in locations around his native Glasgow. Punctuated by techno versions of familiar ditties, Limmy's Homemade Show features scenes and musings which often seem to be rooted in the mundane - until the funnyman adds his own particular twists.

The series takes DIY comedy to a new level. There's a cast of just one, with Limmy playing multiple parts and capturing his off-kilter contemplations, scenarios and stories on a tripod-mounted camera in his home and at locations around his native city.

Written by Brian Limond.
Directed By Brian Limond.
Produced by Brian Limond.
A Permo Production for BBC Scotland.
Limmy's Homemade Show is available here: https://bbc.in/3D59IJj

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.]]>2576falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/161-we-are-lady-parts--46194034
Sitcom following a Muslim punk band.

We Are Lady Parts is written, created and directed by Nida Manzoor, who has drawn on her own experiences and taken inspiration from the rich and diverse cultural collectives and artists in London; and boasts an exciting ensemble cast of new British acting talent.

We Are Lady Parts shows the highs and lows of the band - called Lady Parts - as seen through the eyes of Amina Hussain - a geeky microbiology PhD student, who's on the lookout for love and romance. Lady Parts' fierce and enigmatic frontwoman Saira sees something in Amina that the others can't see.

When Saira discovers Amina fancies Ahsan, fellow band member and taxi-driving drummer Ayesha's dreamboat brother, she uses this as leverage by offering to hook them both up on a date, but only if Amina agrees to join the band.

Written by Nida Manzoor.
Directed By Nida Manzoor
Produced by John Pocock.
A Working Title / Peacock Production Channel 4.
We Are Lady Parts is available here: https://bit.ly/3g61VAQ

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46194034Mon, 23 Aug 2021 14:00:14 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - We Are Lady Parts (Series 1 Episode 1) Sitcom following a Muslim punk band. We Are Lady Parts is written, created and directed by Nida Manzoor, who has drawn on her own experiences and taken inspiration from the rich and...
Sitcom following a Muslim punk band.

We Are Lady Parts is written, created and directed by Nida Manzoor, who has drawn on her own experiences and taken inspiration from the rich and diverse cultural collectives and artists in London; and boasts an exciting ensemble cast of new British acting talent.

We Are Lady Parts shows the highs and lows of the band - called Lady Parts - as seen through the eyes of Amina Hussain - a geeky microbiology PhD student, who's on the lookout for love and romance. Lady Parts' fierce and enigmatic frontwoman Saira sees something in Amina that the others can't see.

When Saira discovers Amina fancies Ahsan, fellow band member and taxi-driving drummer Ayesha's dreamboat brother, she uses this as leverage by offering to hook them both up on a date, but only if Amina agrees to join the band.

Written by Nida Manzoor.
Directed By Nida Manzoor
Produced by John Pocock.
A Working Title / Peacock Production Channel 4.
We Are Lady Parts is available here: https://bit.ly/3g61VAQ

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2752falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/160-alun-cochrane-centrist-dad--46091658
Despite their bad reputation, Alun Cochrane is fine with being a "Centrist Dad".

Join Alun for this recording of his stand-up special for Radio 4 in which he examines the state of political discourse in Britain and tries to find his place on the ever-evolving UK left-right political spectrum.

Alun has never considered himself an offensive comedian but now finds himself to be one of the few pro free speech comedians. How come he feels right wing in comedy dressing rooms, left wing in general society and comes out as totally centrist on those online "what are your politics" tests?

Alun wants to find out if his politics have changed or if the world has just changed around him and left a reasonable man feeling like an extremist. He is pretty sure he isn't an actual baddie. He spends his days writing jokes in Where's Wally? pyjamas alongside his gluten-free dog.

Does that sound like an extremist to you?

Written by Alun Cochrane.
Produced by Richard Morris.
A BBC Studios Production.
Centrist Dad? is available here: https://bbc.in/3C7zEU3

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46091658Mon, 16 Aug 2021 14:00:08 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Alun Chochrane: Centrist Dad? Despite their bad reputation, Alun Cochrane is fine with being a "Centrist Dad". Join Alun for this recording of his stand-up special for Radio 4 in which he examines the state of political...
Despite their bad reputation, Alun Cochrane is fine with being a "Centrist Dad".

Join Alun for this recording of his stand-up special for Radio 4 in which he examines the state of political discourse in Britain and tries to find his place on the ever-evolving UK left-right political spectrum.

Alun has never considered himself an offensive comedian but now finds himself to be one of the few pro free speech comedians. How come he feels right wing in comedy dressing rooms, left wing in general society and comes out as totally centrist on those online "what are your politics" tests?

Alun wants to find out if his politics have changed or if the world has just changed around him and left a reasonable man feeling like an extremist. He is pretty sure he isn't an actual baddie. He spends his days writing jokes in Where's Wally? pyjamas alongside his gluten-free dog.

Does that sound like an extremist to you?

Written by Alun Cochrane.
Produced by Richard Morris.
A BBC Studios Production.
Centrist Dad? is available here: https://bbc.in/3C7zEU3

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2702falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/159-max-and-paddy-s-road-to-nowhere--45997982
Comedy spin-off from Peter Kay's award-winning Phoenix Nights series.
The stars are doormen Max and Paddy who take to the open road in their prized motor home and wreak havoc across the country.

Living in such a confined space proves more difficult than they first thought and, without any suitable home entertainment, they end up sampling the local nightlife where Max's new dance moves are a hit with the infamous Belgrano sisters.

Written by Peter Kay & Paddy McGuinness.
Produced by Lesley McNeil
Directed by Peter Kay
A Phil McIntyre / Goodnight Vienna Production for Channel 4.
Max & Paddy's Road To Nowhere is available to buy here: https://amzn.to/3xe2Yoc

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45997982Mon, 09 Aug 2021 14:00:10 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Max & Paddy's Road To Nowhere (Series 1 Episode 1) Comedy spin-off from Peter Kay's award-winning Phoenix Nights series. The stars are doormen Max and Paddy who take to the open road in their prized motor home and wreak...
Comedy spin-off from Peter Kay's award-winning Phoenix Nights series.
The stars are doormen Max and Paddy who take to the open road in their prized motor home and wreak havoc across the country.

Living in such a confined space proves more difficult than they first thought and, without any suitable home entertainment, they end up sampling the local nightlife where Max's new dance moves are a hit with the infamous Belgrano sisters.

Written by Peter Kay & Paddy McGuinness.
Produced by Lesley McNeil
Directed by Peter Kay
A Phil McIntyre / Goodnight Vienna Production for Channel 4.
Max & Paddy's Road To Nowhere is available to buy here: https://amzn.to/3xe2Yoc

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2714falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/158-the-shuttleworths--45923587 
Radio sitcom in which all parts are voiced by comedian Graham Fellows.

John Shuttleworth, Sheffield's favourite singer-songwriter, takes to the airwaves with his electronic keyboard, wife Mary, and next door neighbour (and sole agent) Ken Worthington in tow.

The fifteen minute episode are based "Sheffield's number one singer-songwriter" as he gives his thoughts on everyday life, and performs ditties on his keyboard.

John's adventures include writing a song for Lady Ga Ga, taking his first trip to an Indian restaurant and celebrating a milestone birthday with a picnic.

Racy stuff.
 
Written by Graham Fellows.
Produced by Dawn Ellis
A BBC Radio Production.
The Shuttleworths is available here: https://bbc.in/3xhLk2P
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45923587Mon, 02 Aug 2021 14:00:09 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Shuttleworths (Series 4 Episodes 1&2)   Radio sitcom in which all parts are voiced by comedian Graham Fellows. John Shuttleworth, Sheffield's favourite singer-songwriter, takes to the airwaves with his electronic... 
Radio sitcom in which all parts are voiced by comedian Graham Fellows.

John Shuttleworth, Sheffield's favourite singer-songwriter, takes to the airwaves with his electronic keyboard, wife Mary, and next door neighbour (and sole agent) Ken Worthington in tow.

The fifteen minute episode are based "Sheffield's number one singer-songwriter" as he gives his thoughts on everyday life, and performs ditties on his keyboard.

John's adventures include writing a song for Lady Ga Ga, taking his first trip to an Indian restaurant and celebrating a milestone birthday with a picnic.

Racy stuff.
 
Written by Graham Fellows.
Produced by Dawn Ellis
A BBC Radio Production.
The Shuttleworths is available here: https://bbc.in/3xhLk2P
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2727falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/157-code-404--45841912 
Detective Inspectors DI John Major and DI Roy Carver are the top crime fighting duo in the Met's Special Investigation Unit. But when an undercover sting goes horribly wrong, Major is gunned down on the job and killed.

How will the SIU function without Major? It doesn't have to.

As an 'asset' considered too valuable to lose, Major's body is fast-tracked into an experimental Artificial Intelligence project to bring him back from the dead. The only problem is, Major 2.0 may look like and sound like the original, but something has been lost in translation - quite a lot actually.
 
His arrogant demeanour and gung-ho approach remain but his crimefighting instincts have completely deserted him. Somehow, Major's error-strewn hunches and Carver's scrambling to make good allows them to just about scrape by. But while the experiment might be hailed as a success, on the front line Roy Carver is left dealing with an increasingly deluded partner.
 
Written by Daniel Peak
Produced by Charlotte Surtees
Directed by Al Campbell
A Kudos & Water & Power Production for Sky.
Code 404 is available here: https://amzn.to/3wL2NR1
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45841912Mon, 26 Jul 2021 14:00:08 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Code 404 (Series 1 Episodes 1)   Detective Inspectors DI John Major and DI Roy Carver are the top crime fighting duo in the Met's Special Investigation Unit. But when an undercover sting goes horribly wrong, Major is gunned... 
Detective Inspectors DI John Major and DI Roy Carver are the top crime fighting duo in the Met's Special Investigation Unit. But when an undercover sting goes horribly wrong, Major is gunned down on the job and killed.

How will the SIU function without Major? It doesn't have to.

As an 'asset' considered too valuable to lose, Major's body is fast-tracked into an experimental Artificial Intelligence project to bring him back from the dead. The only problem is, Major 2.0 may look like and sound like the original, but something has been lost in translation - quite a lot actually.
 
His arrogant demeanour and gung-ho approach remain but his crimefighting instincts have completely deserted him. Somehow, Major's error-strewn hunches and Carver's scrambling to make good allows them to just about scrape by. But while the experiment might be hailed as a success, on the front line Roy Carver is left dealing with an increasingly deluded partner.
 
Written by Daniel Peak
Produced by Charlotte Surtees
Directed by Al Campbell
A Kudos & Water & Power Production for Sky.
Code 404 is available here: https://amzn.to/3wL2NR1
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2737falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/156-all-new-fonejacker--45748596
Fonejacker is a British comedy programme broadcast on Channel 4's E4 featuring a series of prank calls involving a number of different characters performed by British Iranian television actor Kayvan Novak.

In 2005 Kayvan Novak and Ed Tracy created, wrote and directed Fonejacker, a prank call show, as part of Channel 4 Comedy Lab.

After making the pilot together they were given a Christmas special and a six-part series which began airing in the UK in 2007 and lasted 6 episodes. They went on to make a second series which began airing in 2008 and a third series which aired in 2010.

The all new Fonejacker Podcast features 100% brand new prank calls from the BAFTA award winning Kayvan Novak.

Written by Kayvan Novak
Produced by Not listed
Production company not listed.
All New Fonejacker is available here: https://bit.ly/3wH95kE

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45748596Mon, 19 Jul 2021 14:00:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - All New Fonejacker (Episodes 7 & 8) Fonejacker is a British comedy programme broadcast on Channel 4's E4 featuring a series of prank calls involving a number of different characters performed by British Iranian television...
Fonejacker is a British comedy programme broadcast on Channel 4's E4 featuring a series of prank calls involving a number of different characters performed by British Iranian television actor Kayvan Novak.

In 2005 Kayvan Novak and Ed Tracy created, wrote and directed Fonejacker, a prank call show, as part of Channel 4 Comedy Lab.

After making the pilot together they were given a Christmas special and a six-part series which began airing in the UK in 2007 and lasted 6 episodes. They went on to make a second series which began airing in 2008 and a third series which aired in 2010.

The all new Fonejacker Podcast features 100% brand new prank calls from the BAFTA award winning Kayvan Novak.

Written by Kayvan Novak
Produced by Not listed
Production company not listed.
All New Fonejacker is available here: https://bit.ly/3wH95kE

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2725falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/155-harry-hill-s-world-of-tv--45665036
Whether this is one of those programmes that defies description, doesn’t inspire people to write more than the title or just so obviously "does what it says on the tin", the most that we could find written in explanation about Harry Hill's world Of TV was "Harry Hill takes the lid off a different genre of TV each week'.

In fairness, he does use amusing clips from the archives to have a laugh at different genres of telly, such as soaps and medical dramas, so that does pretty well sum up the show.

Very obviously drawing from the successful formula of the ITV show Harry Hill's TV Burp and despite the similarities, the BBC have perhaps wisely chosen to exclude the titular gastric expulsion.

Written by Harry Hill
Produced by David Price & Sam Terroni
Directed by Barry Castagnola
A NIT Production for BBC.
Harry Hill's World Of TV is available here: https://bbc.in/3hjHSAg

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45665036Mon, 12 Jul 2021 14:00:07 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Harry Hill's World Of TV (Series 1 Episode 4) Whether this is one of those programmes that defies description, doesn’t inspire people to write more than the title or just so obviously "does what it says on the tin", the most...
Whether this is one of those programmes that defies description, doesn’t inspire people to write more than the title or just so obviously "does what it says on the tin", the most that we could find written in explanation about Harry Hill's world Of TV was "Harry Hill takes the lid off a different genre of TV each week'.

In fairness, he does use amusing clips from the archives to have a laugh at different genres of telly, such as soaps and medical dramas, so that does pretty well sum up the show.

Very obviously drawing from the successful formula of the ITV show Harry Hill's TV Burp and despite the similarities, the BBC have perhaps wisely chosen to exclude the titular gastric expulsion.

Written by Harry Hill
Produced by David Price & Sam Terroni
Directed by Barry Castagnola
A NIT Production for BBC.
Harry Hill's World Of TV is available here: https://bbc.in/3hjHSAg

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2743falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/154-unite--45582945
When Tony (Mark Steel) a working-class, left wing South Londoner, falls in love and moves in with Imogen (Claire Skinner), an upper middle-class property developer, their respective millennial sons Ashley (Elliot Steel), a disenfranchised Croydon 'rude boy', and Gideon (Ivo Graham), Eton and Oxbridge-educated and crypto-currency literate, are forced to live under the same roof and behave like the brothers neither of them ever wanted.

Class, compromise, hope, desolation, love, identity, step-sibling rivalry and Crystal Palace FC are all explored in this fresh comedy.

The characters get to experience how the other half live. Tony resents his newfound enjoyment of the finer things in life, while Imogen finds Tony's stories of being a working-class hero intriguing and endearing. Ashley's brash attitude belies both insecurity and envy of Gideon who, in turn, is secretly impressed by what he believes to be Ashley's streetwise knowledge of urban culture.

Written by Mark Steel, Elliot Steel & Barry Castagnola
Produced by Barry Castagnola
Directed by Barry Castagnola
A Golden Path Production for BBC Radio 4.
Unite is available here: https://bbc.in/3w3wjkw

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45582945Mon, 05 Jul 2021 14:12:00 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Unite (Series 1 Episode 1) When Tony (Mark Steel) a working-class, left wing South Londoner, falls in love and moves in with Imogen (Claire Skinner), an upper middle-class property developer, their respective millennial sons...
When Tony (Mark Steel) a working-class, left wing South Londoner, falls in love and moves in with Imogen (Claire Skinner), an upper middle-class property developer, their respective millennial sons Ashley (Elliot Steel), a disenfranchised Croydon 'rude boy', and Gideon (Ivo Graham), Eton and Oxbridge-educated and crypto-currency literate, are forced to live under the same roof and behave like the brothers neither of them ever wanted.

Class, compromise, hope, desolation, love, identity, step-sibling rivalry and Crystal Palace FC are all explored in this fresh comedy.

The characters get to experience how the other half live. Tony resents his newfound enjoyment of the finer things in life, while Imogen finds Tony's stories of being a working-class hero intriguing and endearing. Ashley's brash attitude belies both insecurity and envy of Gideon who, in turn, is secretly impressed by what he believes to be Ashley's streetwise knowledge of urban culture.

Written by Mark Steel, Elliot Steel & Barry Castagnola
Produced by Barry Castagnola
Directed by Barry Castagnola
A Golden Path Production for BBC Radio 4.
Unite is available here: https://bbc.in/3w3wjkw

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2770falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/153-going-straight--45465069
After four-odd years inside, Norman Stanley Fletcher has made parole. Aided and encouraged by his daughter Ingrid, her boyfriend - Fletch's old cell mate - Lennie Godber, and his teenage son Raymond, Fletch is determined to make it on the straight and narrow.

It's not destined to be easy though. From discovering his old nemesis Mr Mackay on the same train home, to finding and trying to hold down his first 'straight' job, Fletcher faces many trials and temptations on his path to an honest life - not least the departure of his previously loving wife, Isobel.

Will he make it, or will the temptation of an easy buck prove too strong?

Written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais
Produced by Sydney Lotteryby
Directed by Sydney Lotteryby
A BBC TV Production.
Going Straight is available here: https://amzn.to/35Gy64q

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45465069Mon, 28 Jun 2021 14:00:06 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Going Straight (Episode 5) After four-odd years inside, Norman Stanley Fletcher has made parole. Aided and encouraged by his daughter Ingrid, her boyfriend - Fletch's old cell mate - Lennie Godber, and his teenage son Raymond,...
After four-odd years inside, Norman Stanley Fletcher has made parole. Aided and encouraged by his daughter Ingrid, her boyfriend - Fletch's old cell mate - Lennie Godber, and his teenage son Raymond, Fletch is determined to make it on the straight and narrow.

It's not destined to be easy though. From discovering his old nemesis Mr Mackay on the same train home, to finding and trying to hold down his first 'straight' job, Fletcher faces many trials and temptations on his path to an honest life - not least the departure of his previously loving wife, Isobel.

Will he make it, or will the temptation of an easy buck prove too strong?

Written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais
Produced by Sydney Lotteryby
Directed by Sydney Lotteryby
A BBC TV Production.
Going Straight is available here: https://amzn.to/35Gy64q

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2718falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/152-simon-bird-debrief--45385144
Simon Bird, star of Friday Night Dinner and The Inbetweeners, makes his stand-up special debut.

Recorded during lockdown in an empty theatre, he tackles the UK's response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Simon, undeterred (or emboldened?) by empty seats and eerie silence, reckons with topics such as nationalism, sexism, the environment, and the NHS.

'Debrief' is a long-lens look at the decade leading up to the UK's much-criticised response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Written by Simon Bird
Produced by Rupert Majandie
Directed by Simon Bird
A Baby Cow / People Person Pictures Production.
Simon Bird: Debrief is available here: https://bit.ly/3iFWjzn

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45385144Mon, 21 Jun 2021 14:00:06 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Simon Bird: Debrief Simon Bird, star of Friday Night Dinner and The Inbetweeners, makes his stand-up special debut. Recorded during lockdown in an empty theatre, he tackles the UK's response to the coronavirus pandemic....
Simon Bird, star of Friday Night Dinner and The Inbetweeners, makes his stand-up special debut.

Recorded during lockdown in an empty theatre, he tackles the UK's response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Simon, undeterred (or emboldened?) by empty seats and eerie silence, reckons with topics such as nationalism, sexism, the environment, and the NHS.

'Debrief' is a long-lens look at the decade leading up to the UK's much-criticised response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Written by Simon Bird
Produced by Rupert Majandie
Directed by Simon Bird
A Baby Cow / People Person Pictures Production.
Simon Bird: Debrief is available here: https://bit.ly/3iFWjzn

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2744falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/151-bellamy-s-people--45291560
Award winning journalist Gary Bellamy (Rhys Thomas), host of Radio 4's 'groundbreaking' phone-in programme Down the Line, transfers to TV to present the tortuously-titled factual entertainment show "Bellamy's People (of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland)".

Bellamy abandons the comfort of his studio and jumps in his Triumph Stag "personality vehicle" to travel the length and breadth of the land meeting the people of Britain and trying to find out what makes them tick. His aim is to elicit their views on topics ranging from crime and religion to class and culture. Much like his radio phone-in show, each week will focus on a particular topic of discussion.

The show promises to deliver quintessentially British characters, including a 23-stone man who rarely leaves his bed; a pair of aristocratic sisters with an unhealthy love of totalitarian regimes; a barely reformed celebrity criminal; Christians, Muslims; and a host of other characters that make up modern Britain.

Written by Paul Whitehouse, Charlie Higson, Rhys Thomas, Simon Day, Felix Dexter, Lucy Montgomery, Rosie Cavaliero, Amelia Bullmore and Adil Ray
Produced by Ali Bryer Carron, Paul Whitehouse and Charlie Higson
Directed by Paul Whitehouse and Charlie Higson
A BBC / Down The Line Production.
Bellamy's People is available here: https://amzn.to/3isdapz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45291560Mon, 14 Jun 2021 14:00:06 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Bellamy's People (Episode 7) Award winning journalist Gary Bellamy (Rhys Thomas), host of Radio 4's 'groundbreaking' phone-in programme Down the Line, transfers to TV to present the tortuously-titled factual entertainment show...
Award winning journalist Gary Bellamy (Rhys Thomas), host of Radio 4's 'groundbreaking' phone-in programme Down the Line, transfers to TV to present the tortuously-titled factual entertainment show "Bellamy's People (of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland)".

Bellamy abandons the comfort of his studio and jumps in his Triumph Stag "personality vehicle" to travel the length and breadth of the land meeting the people of Britain and trying to find out what makes them tick. His aim is to elicit their views on topics ranging from crime and religion to class and culture. Much like his radio phone-in show, each week will focus on a particular topic of discussion.

The show promises to deliver quintessentially British characters, including a 23-stone man who rarely leaves his bed; a pair of aristocratic sisters with an unhealthy love of totalitarian regimes; a barely reformed celebrity criminal; Christians, Muslims; and a host of other characters that make up modern Britain.

Written by Paul Whitehouse, Charlie Higson, Rhys Thomas, Simon Day, Felix Dexter, Lucy Montgomery, Rosie Cavaliero, Amelia Bullmore and Adil Ray
Produced by Ali Bryer Carron, Paul Whitehouse and Charlie Higson
Directed by Paul Whitehouse and Charlie Higson
A BBC / Down The Line Production.
Bellamy's People is available here: https://amzn.to/3isdapz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2677falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/150-fawlty-towers--45197797
Fawlty Towers, a 22-room hotel located in Torquay, the centre of the 'English Riviera', is a den of mishap and disaster.

Basil Fawlty, owner and manager of the hotel, is a man of infinite capability in impoliteness, caustic intolerance and general rudeness toward the guests he views as an unwelcome imposition.

His wife, Sybil, is of a more practical demeanour, but seems to have an immunity to work, so the running of the hotel is often left to waitress, maid, and all-round help Polly.

Meanwhile, Spanish waiter and porter Manuel is still struggling to adjust to life working for the outrageous and unpredictable Basil Fawlty.

Written by John Cleese & Connie Booth
Produced by John Howard Davies and Douglas Argent
Directed by John Howard Davies and Bob Spiers
A BBC Production.
Fawlty Towers is available here: https://bbc.in/3frcVc7

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45197797Mon, 07 Jun 2021 14:00:07 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Fawlty Towers (Series 1 Episode 1) Fawlty Towers, a 22-room hotel located in Torquay, the centre of the 'English Riviera', is a den of mishap and disaster. Basil Fawlty, owner and manager of the hotel, is a man of infinite...
Fawlty Towers, a 22-room hotel located in Torquay, the centre of the 'English Riviera', is a den of mishap and disaster.

Basil Fawlty, owner and manager of the hotel, is a man of infinite capability in impoliteness, caustic intolerance and general rudeness toward the guests he views as an unwelcome imposition.

His wife, Sybil, is of a more practical demeanour, but seems to have an immunity to work, so the running of the hotel is often left to waitress, maid, and all-round help Polly.

Meanwhile, Spanish waiter and porter Manuel is still struggling to adjust to life working for the outrageous and unpredictable Basil Fawlty.

Written by John Cleese & Connie Booth
Produced by John Howard Davies and Douglas Argent
Directed by John Howard Davies and Bob Spiers
A BBC Production.
Fawlty Towers is available here: https://bbc.in/3frcVc7

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2647falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/149-the-league-of-gentlemen--45100750
The League of Gentlemen is a surreal British sitcom that premiered on BBC Two in 1999.

The programme is set in Royston Vasey, a fictional town in northern England, originally based on Alston, Cumbria and follows the lives of bizarre characters, most of whom are played by three of the show's four writers – Mark Gatiss, Steve Pemberton, and Reece Shearsmith – who, along with Jeremy Dyson, formed the League of Gentlemen comedy troupe in 1995.

It originally aired for three series from 1999 until 2002 followed by a film in 2005 and was mainly filmed in Hadfield, Derbyshire.

The series ended in 2002, and was followed by a film The League of Gentlemen's Apocalypse and a pantomime themed stage production The League of Gentlemen Are Behind You! in 2005.

Written by Mark Gatiss, Reece Shearsmith, Steve Pemberton and Jeremy Dyson
Produced by Sarah Smith and Jemma Rodgers
Directed by Steve Bendelack
A BBC Production.
The League Of Gentlemen is available here: https://bbc.in/3vg3m5m

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45100750Mon, 31 May 2021 14:00:06 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The League Of Gentlemen (Series 1 Episode 5) The League of Gentlemen is a surreal British sitcom that premiered on BBC Two in 1999. The programme is set in Royston Vasey, a fictional town in northern England, originally...
The League of Gentlemen is a surreal British sitcom that premiered on BBC Two in 1999.

The programme is set in Royston Vasey, a fictional town in northern England, originally based on Alston, Cumbria and follows the lives of bizarre characters, most of whom are played by three of the show's four writers – Mark Gatiss, Steve Pemberton, and Reece Shearsmith – who, along with Jeremy Dyson, formed the League of Gentlemen comedy troupe in 1995.

It originally aired for three series from 1999 until 2002 followed by a film in 2005 and was mainly filmed in Hadfield, Derbyshire.

The series ended in 2002, and was followed by a film The League of Gentlemen's Apocalypse and a pantomime themed stage production The League of Gentlemen Are Behind You! in 2005.

Written by Mark Gatiss, Reece Shearsmith, Steve Pemberton and Jeremy Dyson
Produced by Sarah Smith and Jemma Rodgers
Directed by Steve Bendelack
A BBC Production.
The League Of Gentlemen is available here: https://bbc.in/3vg3m5m

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2687falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/148-motherland--45002493
Motherland is a show all about navigating the trials and traumas of middle-class motherhood, looking at the competitive and unromantic sides of parenting - not the cute and acceptable public face of motherhood.

We meet the 'Alpha Mums' headed by Amanda, who is very much the Queen Bee: everything is organised, clean and sparkly - even the kitchen cork board is a statement of success. Yet at the other end of the spectrum, we meet Liz, who's totally chaotic and feels the kids should enjoy free expression.

Somewhere in the middle is Julia, who, when she forgets it's the school holidays, realises her organisational skills are nowhere near the level of the 'Alpha Mums'. Also in the mix is Kevin. He's the stay at home dad, who, rather than fighting against that, is embracing it with gusto - much to the irritation of the other mothers.

Motherland isn't the public face of motherhood, it's unromanticised parenting: competition, cafes full of kids, dog-poo bags standing in as replacement lunchboxes...

Written by Sharon Horgan, Holly Walsh, Graham Linehan & Helen Linehan
Produced by Richard Boden
Directed by Juliet May
A Delightful Industries / Merman Production for BBC.
Motherland is available here: https://bbc.in/3ygcAAx

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45002493Mon, 24 May 2021 14:00:06 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Motherland (Series 1 Episode 2) Motherland is a show all about navigating the trials and traumas of middle-class motherhood, looking at the competitive and unromantic sides of parenting - not the cute and acceptable public...
Motherland is a show all about navigating the trials and traumas of middle-class motherhood, looking at the competitive and unromantic sides of parenting - not the cute and acceptable public face of motherhood.

We meet the 'Alpha Mums' headed by Amanda, who is very much the Queen Bee: everything is organised, clean and sparkly - even the kitchen cork board is a statement of success. Yet at the other end of the spectrum, we meet Liz, who's totally chaotic and feels the kids should enjoy free expression.

Somewhere in the middle is Julia, who, when she forgets it's the school holidays, realises her organisational skills are nowhere near the level of the 'Alpha Mums'. Also in the mix is Kevin. He's the stay at home dad, who, rather than fighting against that, is embracing it with gusto - much to the irritation of the other mothers.

Motherland isn't the public face of motherhood, it's unromanticised parenting: competition, cafes full of kids, dog-poo bags standing in as replacement lunchboxes...

Written by Sharon Horgan, Holly Walsh, Graham Linehan & Helen Linehan
Produced by Richard Boden
Directed by Juliet May
A Delightful Industries / Merman Production for BBC.
Motherland is available here: https://bbc.in/3ygcAAx

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2709falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/147-frank-of-ireland--44915164
Frank Marron is a 32-year-old catastrophe. A misanthropic, narcissistic, fantasist in arrested development who thinks the world owes him something.

Frank lives in Dublin with his mother Mary, he's single and his pocket money hasn't increased in a decade or more. Frank is a musician but he hasn't written a song or played a gig in seven years and five months.

His ex-girlfriend Aine has a new boyfriend and Frank is finding this difficult to come to terms since they split up about seven years and five months ago, give or take a day.

Frank's wingman, Doofus, foolishly thinks they are best friends and it's his job to attempt to fix the relentless debris in Frank's wake. It's a big job.

Written by Brian Gleeson, Domhnall Gleeson and Michael Moloney
Produced by Rory Gilmartin
Directed by M J Delaney
A Merman Production for Amazon in association with Channel 4.
Frank Of Ireland is available here: https://bit.ly/3vQFuFt

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44915164Wed, 19 May 2021 19:58:57 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Frank Of Ireland (Series 1 Episode 1) Frank Marron is a 32-year-old catastrophe. A misanthropic, narcissistic, fantasist in arrested development who thinks the world owes him something. Frank lives in Dublin with his mother...
Frank Marron is a 32-year-old catastrophe. A misanthropic, narcissistic, fantasist in arrested development who thinks the world owes him something.

Frank lives in Dublin with his mother Mary, he's single and his pocket money hasn't increased in a decade or more. Frank is a musician but he hasn't written a song or played a gig in seven years and five months.

His ex-girlfriend Aine has a new boyfriend and Frank is finding this difficult to come to terms since they split up about seven years and five months ago, give or take a day.

Frank's wingman, Doofus, foolishly thinks they are best friends and it's his job to attempt to fix the relentless debris in Frank's wake. It's a big job.

Written by Brian Gleeson, Domhnall Gleeson and Michael Moloney
Produced by Rory Gilmartin
Directed by M J Delaney
A Merman Production for Amazon in association with Channel 4.
Frank Of Ireland is available here: https://bit.ly/3vQFuFt

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2582falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/146-athena-s-cancel-culture--44733115
Over the last few years, if a celebrity has ever said or done anything remotely controversial, then they've probably been cancelled.

Largely performed through social media, some describe it as necessary evil to help democratise the internet and reflect the expectancy of an artist’s audience, for others it’s just a chance to shut up gobby celebs!

Whatever your view, it certainly helps empower fans by diminishing celebrity cultural capital and helping keep their egos and opinions in check.

Athena explores cancel culture and the world of offence in modern times.

Written by Athena Kugblenu
Produced by Gus Beattie
A Gusman Production for BBC Radio 4.
Athena's Cancel Culture is available here: https://bbc.in/3vKTWP6

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44733115Mon, 10 May 2021 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Athena's Cancel Culture (Series 1 Episodes 1&2) Over the last few years, if a celebrity has ever said or done anything remotely controversial, then they've probably been cancelled. Largely performed through social media,...
Over the last few years, if a celebrity has ever said or done anything remotely controversial, then they've probably been cancelled.

Largely performed through social media, some describe it as necessary evil to help democratise the internet and reflect the expectancy of an artist’s audience, for others it’s just a chance to shut up gobby celebs!

Whatever your view, it certainly helps empower fans by diminishing celebrity cultural capital and helping keep their egos and opinions in check.

Athena explores cancel culture and the world of offence in modern times.

Written by Athena Kugblenu
Produced by Gus Beattie
A Gusman Production for BBC Radio 4.
Athena's Cancel Culture is available here: https://bbc.in/3vKTWP6

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2712falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/145-radio-active--44598376
Radio Active is "Britain's first national local radio station". With presenters including Mike Stand, Mike Channel, Anna Dapter and Mike Flex, the station broadcast music from acts such as The Hee Bee Gee Bees, as well as its own original programming with shows like Round Your Parts, Gigantaquiz and Stop That Crime UK.

The series originated as the 1979 Fringe show from the Oxford Revue, with stars Angus Deayton, Geoffrey Perkins, Helen Atkinson-Wood, Philip Pope and Michael Fenton Stevens.

Radio Active aired throughout most of the 1980s, with the fictional radio station eventually becoming the fictional satellite TV channel KYTV. Radio Active has since been revived both on radio and the stage.

Written by Angus Deayton, Geoffrey Perkins and Richard Curtis
Produced by Jimmy Mulville and David Tyler
A BBC Radio Production.
Radio Active is available here: https://bbc.in/3xpPM0F

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44598376Mon, 03 May 2021 14:00:11 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Radio Active (Series 4 Episode 4) Radio Active is "Britain's first national local radio station". With presenters including Mike Stand, Mike Channel, Anna Dapter and Mike Flex, the station broadcast music from acts such as The...
Radio Active is "Britain's first national local radio station". With presenters including Mike Stand, Mike Channel, Anna Dapter and Mike Flex, the station broadcast music from acts such as The Hee Bee Gee Bees, as well as its own original programming with shows like Round Your Parts, Gigantaquiz and Stop That Crime UK.

The series originated as the 1979 Fringe show from the Oxford Revue, with stars Angus Deayton, Geoffrey Perkins, Helen Atkinson-Wood, Philip Pope and Michael Fenton Stevens.

Radio Active aired throughout most of the 1980s, with the fictional radio station eventually becoming the fictional satellite TV channel KYTV. Radio Active has since been revived both on radio and the stage.

Written by Angus Deayton, Geoffrey Perkins and Richard Curtis
Produced by Jimmy Mulville and David Tyler
A BBC Radio Production.
Radio Active is available here: https://bbc.in/3xpPM0F

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2694falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/144-3rd-rock-from-the-sun--44487518
The show revolves around an extra-terrestrial research expedition from a planet on the Cepheus-Draco border attempting to live as a normal human family in the fictional city of Rutherford, Ohio.

They attempt to study human society and understand the human condition, while living as humans on Earth, reflecting on human life from the perspective of aliens.

Most of the episodes are named after the protagonist, Dick and in later episodes, they have become more accustomed to Earth and are often more interested in their human lives than in their mission.

Dick Solomon (John Lithgow), the High Commander and leader of the expedition, is the family provider and a physics professor at Pendelton. Information officer and oldest member of the crew Tommy (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) has been given the body of a teenager and is forced to enroll in high school (later college), leaving security officer Sally (Kristen Johnston) and "the one with the transmitter in his head", Harry (French Stewart) to spend their lives as 20-somethings hanging out at home and bouncing through short-term jobs.

Written by Mark Brazill & Bob Kushell
Directed by Terry Hughes
Produced by Bob Kushell / Christine Zander / Patrick Keinlen
A Carsey-Werner Production.
Third Rock From The Sun is available here: https://amzn.to/3v1HDO1

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44487518Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:00:05 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Third Rock From The Sun (Series 3 Episode 1) The show revolves around an extra-terrestrial research expedition from a planet on the Cepheus-Draco border attempting to live as a normal human family in the fictional city of...
The show revolves around an extra-terrestrial research expedition from a planet on the Cepheus-Draco border attempting to live as a normal human family in the fictional city of Rutherford, Ohio.

They attempt to study human society and understand the human condition, while living as humans on Earth, reflecting on human life from the perspective of aliens.

Most of the episodes are named after the protagonist, Dick and in later episodes, they have become more accustomed to Earth and are often more interested in their human lives than in their mission.

Dick Solomon (John Lithgow), the High Commander and leader of the expedition, is the family provider and a physics professor at Pendelton. Information officer and oldest member of the crew Tommy (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) has been given the body of a teenager and is forced to enroll in high school (later college), leaving security officer Sally (Kristen Johnston) and "the one with the transmitter in his head", Harry (French Stewart) to spend their lives as 20-somethings hanging out at home and bouncing through short-term jobs.

Written by Mark Brazill & Bob Kushell
Directed by Terry Hughes
Produced by Bob Kushell / Christine Zander / Patrick Keinlen
A Carsey-Werner Production.
Third Rock From The Sun is available here: https://amzn.to/3v1HDO1

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2634falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/143-whites--44389496
Set in the kitchen of a country house hotel, Whites follows the trials and tribulations of head chef Roland and his long suffering sous chef Bib.

Having been on the brink of success 15 years ago, Roland has since lost the sparkle and drive needed to win a long-coveted Michelin star. He can cook with the best of them when he puts his mind to it, but laziness gets the better of him, much to the annoyance of restaurant manager Caroline.

Bib, meanwhile, is under pressure and hasn't spent time with his wife for months. It doesn't help that Skoose the apprentice chef, has zero respect for him or that quirky waitress Kiki takes an order for an eggless omelette.

Despite all their problems, Bib knows he is lucky to be working alongside a true culinary genius and Roland knows that Bib is a true friend. But this doesn't stop things from getting heated in the kitchen.

Written by Matt King and Oliver Lansley
Directed by David Kerr
Produced by Charlie Hanson and Michelle Farr-Scott
A BBC Production.
Whites is available here: https://amzn.to/3239uRF

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44389496Mon, 19 Apr 2021 14:00:14 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Whites (Series 1 Episode 3) Set in the kitchen of a country house hotel, Whites follows the trials and tribulations of head chef Roland and his long suffering sous chef Bib. Having been on the brink of success 15 years ago,...
Set in the kitchen of a country house hotel, Whites follows the trials and tribulations of head chef Roland and his long suffering sous chef Bib.

Having been on the brink of success 15 years ago, Roland has since lost the sparkle and drive needed to win a long-coveted Michelin star. He can cook with the best of them when he puts his mind to it, but laziness gets the better of him, much to the annoyance of restaurant manager Caroline.

Bib, meanwhile, is under pressure and hasn't spent time with his wife for months. It doesn't help that Skoose the apprentice chef, has zero respect for him or that quirky waitress Kiki takes an order for an eggless omelette.

Despite all their problems, Bib knows he is lucky to be working alongside a true culinary genius and Roland knows that Bib is a true friend. But this doesn't stop things from getting heated in the kitchen.

Written by Matt King and Oliver Lansley
Directed by David Kerr
Produced by Charlie Hanson and Michelle Farr-Scott
A BBC Production.
Whites is available here: https://amzn.to/3239uRF

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2723falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/142-mister-winner--44300294
Leslie Winner is an eternally-optimistic klutz with his heart in the right place.

Somehow, despite his calamitous nature, he has found love with his fiancé Jemma and they are preparing for their wedding.

The pressure is on Leslie to find, and keep a job, pay for the honeymoon and keep his father-in-law happy, his mum and her new boyfriend happy and hang on to Jemma long enough to walk up the aisle together.

Will Leslie be a winner or will his surname continue to be ironic?

Written by Matt Morgan
Directed by Andrew Chaplin
Produced by Richard Webb
A BBC Studios Production.
Mister Winner is available here: https://bbc.in/3sXAm1a

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44300294Mon, 12 Apr 2021 14:00:20 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Mister Winner (Series 1 Episode 3) Leslie Winner is an eternally-optimistic klutz with his heart in the right place. Somehow, despite his calamitous nature, he has found love with his fiancé Jemma and they are preparing...
Leslie Winner is an eternally-optimistic klutz with his heart in the right place.

Somehow, despite his calamitous nature, he has found love with his fiancé Jemma and they are preparing for their wedding.

The pressure is on Leslie to find, and keep a job, pay for the honeymoon and keep his father-in-law happy, his mum and her new boyfriend happy and hang on to Jemma long enough to walk up the aisle together.

Will Leslie be a winner or will his surname continue to be ironic?

Written by Matt Morgan
Directed by Andrew Chaplin
Produced by Richard Webb
A BBC Studios Production.
Mister Winner is available here: https://bbc.in/3sXAm1a

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2764falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/141-ted-lasso--44201660
Recently divorced Rebecca Welton is the new owner of AFC Richmond, a struggling team in the English Premier League and to seek revenge on her cheating ex-husband, she hires the most incompetent coach that she can find to ruin the football club - the only thing her ex ever loved.

She hires Ted Lasso, an American Football coach who knows absolutely nothing about football.

Arriving in Richmond with his assistant, Coach Beard, he tries to connect with the players with his positive, folksy charm. The team hates him and take him for a fool but it soon becomes clear that he's smarter than he looks.

Written by Bill Wrubel (Episode)
Directed by Elliot Hegarty (Episode)
Executive Producers by Jeff Ingold / Liza Katzer / Bill Lawrence / Jason Sudeikis
An Apple Original Production.
Ted Lasso is available here: https://apple.co/3u2sWts

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44201660Mon, 05 Apr 2021 14:00:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Ted Lasso (Series 1 Episode 6) Recently divorced Rebecca Welton is the new owner of AFC Richmond, a struggling team in the English Premier League and to seek revenge on her cheating ex-husband, she hires the most incompetent...
Recently divorced Rebecca Welton is the new owner of AFC Richmond, a struggling team in the English Premier League and to seek revenge on her cheating ex-husband, she hires the most incompetent coach that she can find to ruin the football club - the only thing her ex ever loved.

She hires Ted Lasso, an American Football coach who knows absolutely nothing about football.

Arriving in Richmond with his assistant, Coach Beard, he tries to connect with the players with his positive, folksy charm. The team hates him and take him for a fool but it soon becomes clear that he's smarter than he looks.

Written by Bill Wrubel (Episode)
Directed by Elliot Hegarty (Episode)
Executive Producers by Jeff Ingold / Liza Katzer / Bill Lawrence / Jason Sudeikis
An Apple Original Production.
Ted Lasso is available here: https://apple.co/3u2sWts

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2722falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/140-15-storeys-high--44086064
Sitcom focusing on miserable lifeguard Vince Clark, who hates being touched, and his Chinese lodger Errol, who live together in the tower block.

In addition to watching Vince and Errol, we dip in and out of the lives of the other occupants of the towerblock; there's wife-swappers, bible-bashers, lap dancers, hopeless stoners, embryonic boy bands, hygiene freaks, men who shout at TVs and even a bloke who keeps a horse in the spare room.

Written by Sean Lock / Martin Trenaman / Mark Jones
Directed by Mark Nunneley
Produced by Phil Bowker
A BBC Three Production.
15 Storeys High is available here: https://amzn.to/3lDJchI

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44086064Mon, 29 Mar 2021 14:00:11 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - 15 Storeys High (Series 2 Episode 1) Sitcom focusing on miserable lifeguard Vince Clark, who hates being touched, and his Chinese lodger Errol, who live together in the tower block. In addition to watching Vince and Errol,...
Sitcom focusing on miserable lifeguard Vince Clark, who hates being touched, and his Chinese lodger Errol, who live together in the tower block.

In addition to watching Vince and Errol, we dip in and out of the lives of the other occupants of the towerblock; there's wife-swappers, bible-bashers, lap dancers, hopeless stoners, embryonic boy bands, hygiene freaks, men who shout at TVs and even a bloke who keeps a horse in the spare room.

Written by Sean Lock / Martin Trenaman / Mark Jones
Directed by Mark Nunneley
Produced by Phil Bowker
A BBC Three Production.
15 Storeys High is available here: https://amzn.to/3lDJchI

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2660falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/139-mandy--43979312
Mandy is a BBC TV series, written by and starring Diane Morgan as the title character Mandy Carter. The pilot was first broadcast in August 2020

Mandy is a woman with dreams. Big dreams. Most of all, she dreams of breeding Doberman Pinchers.

But there are hurdles to overcome before that dream can become a reality. In the series we'll see her go on a health kick, rent out her small back bedroom on Airbnb and attempt a series of short-lived jobs in the modern gig economy.

Supporting cast include Tom Basden, Maxine Peake, Tony Way, Sean Locke, David Bradley and Natalie Cassidy.

Written by Diane Morgan
Directed by Diane Morgan
Produced by Sam Morgan
A BBC Studios Production.
Mandy is available here: https://bbc.in/3bOtdu4

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43979312Mon, 22 Mar 2021 15:00:17 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Mandy (Series 1 Episode 1&2) Mandy is a BBC TV series, written by and starring Diane Morgan as the title character Mandy Carter. The pilot was first broadcast in August 2020 Mandy is a woman with dreams. Big dreams. Most of...
Mandy is a BBC TV series, written by and starring Diane Morgan as the title character Mandy Carter. The pilot was first broadcast in August 2020

Mandy is a woman with dreams. Big dreams. Most of all, she dreams of breeding Doberman Pinchers.

But there are hurdles to overcome before that dream can become a reality. In the series we'll see her go on a health kick, rent out her small back bedroom on Airbnb and attempt a series of short-lived jobs in the modern gig economy.

Supporting cast include Tom Basden, Maxine Peake, Tony Way, Sean Locke, David Bradley and Natalie Cassidy.

Written by Diane Morgan
Directed by Diane Morgan
Produced by Sam Morgan
A BBC Studios Production.
Mandy is available here: https://bbc.in/3bOtdu4

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2684falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/138-the-men-from-the-ministry--43893331
It was written and produced by Edward Taylor with contributions from John Graham, and with some early episodes written by Johnnie Mortimer and Brian Cooke, it ran for 13 series, totalling 145 half-hour episodes and two specials.

The series is about lazy, bungling, incompetent civil servants, "Number One" – Roland Hamilton-Jones (Wilfrid Hyde-White) and later Deryck Lennox-Brown (Deryck Guyler), "Number Two" – Richard Lamb (Richard Murdoch), with their dim, typo-prone, teenage secretary, Mildred Murfin (Norma Ronald), all watched-over by the lecherous, pompous, self-seeking Permanent Under-Secretary Sir Gregory Pitkin (Roy Dotrice and later Ronald Baddiley), all members of the British Civil Service based in Whitehall.

The characters are portrayed as inept, greedy, selfish and incompetent but never malicious and the humour was very light-hearted. There was also a little broad satire in many episodes although later series tended to recycle older scripts.

Written by Edward Taylor & John Graham
Produced by Edward Taylor
A BBC Radio Production.
The Men From The Ministry is available here: https://bbc.in/3sXR542

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43893331Mon, 15 Mar 2021 15:00:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorThe Men from the Ministry was broadcast by the BBC between 1962 and 1977 and starred Wilfrid Hyde-White and Richard Murdoch until 1966, when Deryck Guyler replaced Hyde-White. It was written and produced by Edward Taylor with contributions from...
It was written and produced by Edward Taylor with contributions from John Graham, and with some early episodes written by Johnnie Mortimer and Brian Cooke, it ran for 13 series, totalling 145 half-hour episodes and two specials.

The series is about lazy, bungling, incompetent civil servants, "Number One" – Roland Hamilton-Jones (Wilfrid Hyde-White) and later Deryck Lennox-Brown (Deryck Guyler), "Number Two" – Richard Lamb (Richard Murdoch), with their dim, typo-prone, teenage secretary, Mildred Murfin (Norma Ronald), all watched-over by the lecherous, pompous, self-seeking Permanent Under-Secretary Sir Gregory Pitkin (Roy Dotrice and later Ronald Baddiley), all members of the British Civil Service based in Whitehall.

The characters are portrayed as inept, greedy, selfish and incompetent but never malicious and the humour was very light-hearted. There was also a little broad satire in many episodes although later series tended to recycle older scripts.

Written by Edward Taylor & John Graham
Produced by Edward Taylor
A BBC Radio Production.
The Men From The Ministry is available here: https://bbc.in/3sXR542

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2768falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/137-back--43770005
Stephen's father, a local legend and pub landlord, has died so Stephen is set to - finally - take over the pub. Mum Ellen and sister Cass have no interest in the family business - they're 'creative', with weed to buy and energy-centres to rebalance.

With his dad dead, it's now Stephen's chance to shine - his only achievements so far have been marriage (followed by divorce) and a slightly disappointing pub refurb. But when the charming Andrew turns up out of the blue at his dad's funeral, Stephen's plans go awry.

Charismatic Andrew has lived in Sydney, Amsterdam, Chicago, the Loire valley and Berlin but crucially, spent five formative months in 1989 fostered by Laurie and Ellen as a 15-year-old. To Stephen, Andrew was just one of a string of 30-odd foster kids who he spent his childhood resenting. But Andrew remembers every single detail and sees that time as the most important of his life.

Now Andrew's back, and keen to revisit the closest thing he's ever had to a family. Ellen loves Andrew. Cass loves Andrew. Even Laurie's erratic brother Uncle Geoff loves Andrew. But Stephen doesn't love Andrew. He thinks he's a glib, dangerous sociopath who's about to steal his family, his business and his life.

Written by Simon Blackwell
Produced by Kate Daughton and Lyndsay Robinson
Directed by Ben Palmer and George Kane
A That M&W in association with Big Talk Productions for Channel 4.
Back is available here: https://bit.ly/3b2GRZX

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43770005Mon, 08 Mar 2021 15:00:12 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Back (Series 1 Episode 1) Stephen's father, a local legend and pub landlord, has died so Stephen is set to - finally - take over the pub. Mum Ellen and sister Cass have no interest in the family business - they're 'creative',...
Stephen's father, a local legend and pub landlord, has died so Stephen is set to - finally - take over the pub. Mum Ellen and sister Cass have no interest in the family business - they're 'creative', with weed to buy and energy-centres to rebalance.

With his dad dead, it's now Stephen's chance to shine - his only achievements so far have been marriage (followed by divorce) and a slightly disappointing pub refurb. But when the charming Andrew turns up out of the blue at his dad's funeral, Stephen's plans go awry.

Charismatic Andrew has lived in Sydney, Amsterdam, Chicago, the Loire valley and Berlin but crucially, spent five formative months in 1989 fostered by Laurie and Ellen as a 15-year-old. To Stephen, Andrew was just one of a string of 30-odd foster kids who he spent his childhood resenting. But Andrew remembers every single detail and sees that time as the most important of his life.

Now Andrew's back, and keen to revisit the closest thing he's ever had to a family. Ellen loves Andrew. Cass loves Andrew. Even Laurie's erratic brother Uncle Geoff loves Andrew. But Stephen doesn't love Andrew. He thinks he's a glib, dangerous sociopath who's about to steal his family, his business and his life.

Written by Simon Blackwell
Produced by Kate Daughton and Lyndsay Robinson
Directed by Ben Palmer and George Kane
A That M&W in association with Big Talk Productions for Channel 4.
Back is available here: https://bit.ly/3b2GRZX

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2589falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/136-toast-of-london--43677564
Steven Toast is a middle-aged, middling actor with a chequered past who spends more time dealing with his problems off stage rather than performing on it.

When not treading the boards, Toast haunts the voice over studios of Soho where amongst other, he endures the company and shenanigans of producers Danny Bear and the inimitable 'Yes, I can hear you' Clem Fandango.

Toast lives with his friend and fellow thesp, Ed Howzer-Black and his career limps along with the 'help' of his useless agent Jane Plough and the hindrance of his acting nemesis Ray Purchase.

Written by Matt Berry and Arthur Mathews
Produced by Izzy Mant
Directed by Michael Cumming
An Objective production for Channel 4.
Toast Of London is available here: https://bit.ly/2NPE25o

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43677564Mon, 01 Mar 2021 15:00:08 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Toast Of London (Series 3 Episode 5) Steven Toast is a middle-aged, middling actor with a chequered past who spends more time dealing with his problems off stage rather than performing on it. When not treading the boards,...
Steven Toast is a middle-aged, middling actor with a chequered past who spends more time dealing with his problems off stage rather than performing on it.

When not treading the boards, Toast haunts the voice over studios of Soho where amongst other, he endures the company and shenanigans of producers Danny Bear and the inimitable 'Yes, I can hear you' Clem Fandango.

Toast lives with his friend and fellow thesp, Ed Howzer-Black and his career limps along with the 'help' of his useless agent Jane Plough and the hindrance of his acting nemesis Ray Purchase.

Written by Matt Berry and Arthur Mathews
Produced by Izzy Mant
Directed by Michael Cumming
An Objective production for Channel 4.
Toast Of London is available here: https://bit.ly/2NPE25o

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2682falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/135-modern-life-is-goodish--43568763
Dave Gorman thinks modern life is good-ish.

However, tired of endlessly being sold stuff he doesn't need, feeling manipulated by the media and harassed by technology, he's become slightly obsessive about the 'ish'.

Instead of letting it drive him mad he's decided to fight back. A bit. Sort of, ish and he shares his observations and frustrations in this mischievous show.

Presented using his own unique blend of stand-up and documentary comedy, it's a whole new take on the things we normally take for granted.

Written by Dave Gorman
Produced by Nick Martin and James Fidler
Directed by Paul Wheeler
A Liberty Bell production for Dave.
Modern Life Is Goodish is available here: https://bit.ly/3danYWo
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43568763Mon, 22 Feb 2021 15:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Modern Life Is Goodish (Series 4 Episode 3) Dave Gorman thinks modern life is good-ish. However, tired of endlessly being sold stuff he doesn't need, feeling manipulated by the media and harassed by technology, he's become...
Dave Gorman thinks modern life is good-ish.

However, tired of endlessly being sold stuff he doesn't need, feeling manipulated by the media and harassed by technology, he's become slightly obsessive about the 'ish'.

Instead of letting it drive him mad he's decided to fight back. A bit. Sort of, ish and he shares his observations and frustrations in this mischievous show.

Presented using his own unique blend of stand-up and documentary comedy, it's a whole new take on the things we normally take for granted.

Written by Dave Gorman
Produced by Nick Martin and James Fidler
Directed by Paul Wheeler
A Liberty Bell production for Dave.
Modern Life Is Goodish is available here: https://bit.ly/3danYWo
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2672falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/134-catastrophe--43473555https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43473555Mon, 15 Feb 2021 15:00:09 +0000Shane O'Connor2806falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/133-another-case-of-milton-jones--43331557
Another Case of Milton Jones is the third comedy programme starring Milton Jones written for BBC Radio 4 and ran for five series.

Each week Milton plays the part of an expert in a given field, with no discernible ability or aptitude for his new found environment.

Assisting him are his good friend Anton, (Tom Goodman-Hill) whom Milton has known from an early age (though the exact scenarios differ from episode to episode) and for the first series, his sister Susan (Debbie Chazen).

The show is a dean pan pun-heavy sitcom and has seen our eponymous hero in the roles of courtroom barrister, world explorer, Mayor of London and championship jockey to name but a few.

Not necessarily carried off with aplomb but always with boyish enthusiasm.

Written by Milton Jones & James Carey
Produced by David Tyler
A Pozzitive Productions for BBC Radio 4.
Another Case Of Milton Jones is available here: https://adbl.co/36AAw5A
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43331557Mon, 08 Feb 2021 15:00:04 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Another Case Of Milton Jones (Series 4 Episode 1) Another Case of Milton Jones is the third comedy programme starring Milton Jones written for BBC Radio 4 and ran for five series. Each week Milton plays the part of an...
Another Case of Milton Jones is the third comedy programme starring Milton Jones written for BBC Radio 4 and ran for five series.

Each week Milton plays the part of an expert in a given field, with no discernible ability or aptitude for his new found environment.

Assisting him are his good friend Anton, (Tom Goodman-Hill) whom Milton has known from an early age (though the exact scenarios differ from episode to episode) and for the first series, his sister Susan (Debbie Chazen).

The show is a dean pan pun-heavy sitcom and has seen our eponymous hero in the roles of courtroom barrister, world explorer, Mayor of London and championship jockey to name but a few.

Not necessarily carried off with aplomb but always with boyish enthusiasm.

Written by Milton Jones & James Carey
Produced by David Tyler
A Pozzitive Productions for BBC Radio 4.
Another Case Of Milton Jones is available here: https://adbl.co/36AAw5A
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2667falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/132-south-park--43230529 
South Park is an American animated sitcom created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone and developed by Brian Graden for Comedy Central.

The series revolves around four boys - Stan Marsh, Kyle Broflovski, Eric Cartman, and Kenny McCormick and their exploits in and around the titular Colorado town. The show became infamous for its profanity and dark, surreal humor that satirizes a wide range of topics towards a mature audience.

Parker and Stone developed the show from The Spirit of Christmas, two consecutive animated shorts. The latter became one of the first Internet viral videos, ultimately leading to South Park's production.

The pilot episode was produced using cutout animation, leading to all subsequent episodes being produced with computer animation that emulated the cutout technique.

South Park has received numerous accolades, including five Primetime Emmy Awards, a Peabody Award and numerous inclusions in various publications' lists of greatest television shows.

Written by Trey Parker
Produced by Kyle McCulloch
Directed by Trey Parker
A Celluloid Studios / Braniff Productions / Parker-Stone / South Park Studios for Comedy Central.
South Park is available here: https://bit.ly/3c3BY3X
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43230529Mon, 01 Feb 2021 16:29:57 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Green Wing (Series 12 Episode 7)   South Park is an American animated sitcom created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone and developed by Brian Graden for Comedy Central. The series revolves around four boys - Stan Marsh, Kyle... 
South Park is an American animated sitcom created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone and developed by Brian Graden for Comedy Central.

The series revolves around four boys - Stan Marsh, Kyle Broflovski, Eric Cartman, and Kenny McCormick and their exploits in and around the titular Colorado town. The show became infamous for its profanity and dark, surreal humor that satirizes a wide range of topics towards a mature audience.

Parker and Stone developed the show from The Spirit of Christmas, two consecutive animated shorts. The latter became one of the first Internet viral videos, ultimately leading to South Park's production.

The pilot episode was produced using cutout animation, leading to all subsequent episodes being produced with computer animation that emulated the cutout technique.

South Park has received numerous accolades, including five Primetime Emmy Awards, a Peabody Award and numerous inclusions in various publications' lists of greatest television shows.

Written by Trey Parker
Produced by Kyle McCulloch
Directed by Trey Parker
A Celluloid Studios / Braniff Productions / Parker-Stone / South Park Studios for Comedy Central.
South Park is available here: https://bit.ly/3c3BY3X
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2646falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/131-green-wing--43093520
Green Wing follows the lives of the staff of the East Hampton Hospital Trust.
The series begins with the arrival of new surgical registrar Dr Caroline Todd (Tamsin Greig), a woman who seems to manage to constantly put herself in the most embarrassing situations.

During her time in the hospital she begins to form friendships with her two co-workers: half-Swiss, womanising anaesthetist Dr Guy Secretan (Stephen Mangan), and cool surgeon Dr 'Mac' Macartney (Julian Rhind-Tutt). It is not long before these friendships become stronger, but who will end up dating whom?

A strong supporting cast boasts performances from Karl Theobald as a well-meaning house officer, Sarah Alexander as senior paediatric registrar Dr Angela Hunter, Olivia Coleman, Sally Bretton and Mark Heap as the pompous and odd Dr Alan Statham.

Written by Victoria Pile, Robert Harley, James Henry, Stuart Kenworthy, Oriane Messina, Fay Rusling, Richard Preddy and Gary Howe
Produced by Victoria Pile
Directed by Dominic Brigstocke and Tristram Shapeero
A Talkback Thames Production for Channel 4.
Green Wing is available here: https://bit.ly/3nUPYiH

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43093520Mon, 25 Jan 2021 15:00:09 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Green Wing (Series 1 Episode 1) Green Wing follows the lives of the staff of the East Hampton Hospital Trust. The series begins with the arrival of new surgical registrar Dr Caroline Todd (Tamsin Greig), a woman who seems...
Green Wing follows the lives of the staff of the East Hampton Hospital Trust.
The series begins with the arrival of new surgical registrar Dr Caroline Todd (Tamsin Greig), a woman who seems to manage to constantly put herself in the most embarrassing situations.

During her time in the hospital she begins to form friendships with her two co-workers: half-Swiss, womanising anaesthetist Dr Guy Secretan (Stephen Mangan), and cool surgeon Dr 'Mac' Macartney (Julian Rhind-Tutt). It is not long before these friendships become stronger, but who will end up dating whom?

A strong supporting cast boasts performances from Karl Theobald as a well-meaning house officer, Sarah Alexander as senior paediatric registrar Dr Angela Hunter, Olivia Coleman, Sally Bretton and Mark Heap as the pompous and odd Dr Alan Statham.

Written by Victoria Pile, Robert Harley, James Henry, Stuart Kenworthy, Oriane Messina, Fay Rusling, Richard Preddy and Gary Howe
Produced by Victoria Pile
Directed by Dominic Brigstocke and Tristram Shapeero
A Talkback Thames Production for Channel 4.
Green Wing is available here: https://bit.ly/3nUPYiH

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2701falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/130-two-s-company--42991811
Dorothy McNab, a prickly American authoress needs domestic help for her new Chelsea townhouse. When Robert, an irrepressibly posh British butler applies, he takes an instant dislike to her.

A true Gentleman's Gentleman, Robert is stubborn and constantly frustrated by his employer's lack of decorum and sophistication. But in Dorothy he has met both his match and his adversary; equally stubborn and with a coarseness to match his impeccable manners, her indifference to all that is important to Robert is a constant source of friction between them.

Written by Bill MacIlwraith
Produced by Stuart Allen and Humphrey Barclay
Directed by Stuart Allen and John Reardon.
A London Weekend Television Production for ITV.
Two's Company is available here: https://amzn.to/3oXyenY

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42991811Mon, 18 Jan 2021 14:41:08 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Two's Company (Series 2 Episode 1) Dorothy McNab, a prickly American authoress needs domestic help for her new Chelsea townhouse. When Robert, an irrepressibly posh British butler applies, he takes an instant dislike to her....
Dorothy McNab, a prickly American authoress needs domestic help for her new Chelsea townhouse. When Robert, an irrepressibly posh British butler applies, he takes an instant dislike to her.

A true Gentleman's Gentleman, Robert is stubborn and constantly frustrated by his employer's lack of decorum and sophistication. But in Dorothy he has met both his match and his adversary; equally stubborn and with a coarseness to match his impeccable manners, her indifference to all that is important to Robert is a constant source of friction between them.

Written by Bill MacIlwraith
Produced by Stuart Allen and Humphrey Barclay
Directed by Stuart Allen and John Reardon.
A London Weekend Television Production for ITV.
Two's Company is available here: https://amzn.to/3oXyenY

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2519falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/129-drunk-history-uk--42869578 
A UK version of the TV format in which inebriated comedians attempt to recount events from history.

Top UK stand-ups relate their favourite historical stories while getting absolutely bladdered on a mixture of beers, wines and spirits. Their slurred versions of history are then acted out, word for word, by a host of well-known actors, celebrities and comedians

Luckily, Jimmy Carr is on voice-over duties to restore some order if the drinking sessions get out of hand.

Created by Jeremy Konner and Derek Waters
Additional Material by Dominic English.
Produced by Ben Rogers.
Directed by Tom McKay.
A Tiger Aspect Production for Comedy Central.
Drunk History UK is available here: https://amzn.to/3ntPU9r
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42869578Mon, 11 Jan 2021 15:00:18 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Drunk History UK (Series 3 Episode 4)   A UK version of the TV format in which inebriated comedians attempt to recount events from history. Top UK stand-ups relate their favourite historical stories while getting absolutely... 
A UK version of the TV format in which inebriated comedians attempt to recount events from history.

Top UK stand-ups relate their favourite historical stories while getting absolutely bladdered on a mixture of beers, wines and spirits. Their slurred versions of history are then acted out, word for word, by a host of well-known actors, celebrities and comedians

Luckily, Jimmy Carr is on voice-over duties to restore some order if the drinking sessions get out of hand.

Created by Jeremy Konner and Derek Waters
Additional Material by Dominic English.
Produced by Ben Rogers.
Directed by Tom McKay.
A Tiger Aspect Production for Comedy Central.
Drunk History UK is available here: https://amzn.to/3ntPU9r
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2718falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/128-futile-attempts-at-surviving-tomorrow--42789394 
Life’s rubbish. However artist, comedian and manic depressive Kim Noble has just bought a microphone and he’s decided to make a podcast (like every other loser).

Over ten episodes, we join Kim on a surreal and hilarious sonic journey.

In a podcast unlike anything you’ve heard before, Kim’s quest to discover what makes life worth living takes him to Sting’s mansion, down a sewer, underneath a church altar and into the arms of a Hounslow-based cult.

Futile Attempts (At Surviving Tomorrow) is written and presented by Kim Noble.

Written by Kim Noble.
Produced by Benbrick.
A Novel Production.
Futile Attempts (At Surviving Tomorrow) is available here: https://spoti.fi/3r2GlkT
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42789394Mon, 04 Jan 2021 21:41:05 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Futile Attempts (At Surviving Tomorrow) (Episodes 2)   Life’s rubbish. However artist, comedian and manic depressive Kim Noble has just bought a microphone and he’s decided to make a podcast (like every other loser). Over... 
Life’s rubbish. However artist, comedian and manic depressive Kim Noble has just bought a microphone and he’s decided to make a podcast (like every other loser).

Over ten episodes, we join Kim on a surreal and hilarious sonic journey.

In a podcast unlike anything you’ve heard before, Kim’s quest to discover what makes life worth living takes him to Sting’s mansion, down a sewer, underneath a church altar and into the arms of a Hounslow-based cult.

Futile Attempts (At Surviving Tomorrow) is written and presented by Kim Noble.

Written by Kim Noble.
Produced by Benbrick.
A Novel Production.
Futile Attempts (At Surviving Tomorrow) is available here: https://spoti.fi/3r2GlkT
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2700falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/127-seinfeld--42638558 
Seinfeld is an American sitcom television series created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld which ran on NBC from 1989 to 1998, over nine seasons and 180 episodes.

The show stars Seinfeld as a fictionalized version of himself who is the main protagonist and focuses on his personal life with three of friends - George Costanza (Jason Alexander), former girlfriend Elaine Benes (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), and neighbour across the hall Cosmo Kramer (Michael Richards). 

Seinfeld is set mostly in an apartment building in Manhattan's Upper West Side in New York City and has been described as "a show about nothing," often focusing on the minutiae of daily life.

Created by Larry David & Jerry Seinfeld.
Executive Produced by Larry David, George Shapiro, Howard West, Andrew Scheinman, Jerry Seinfeld, Alec Berg and Jeff Schaffer
Directed by various.
A Giggling Goose / Fred Barron Productions / West/Shapiro Productions / Castle Rock Entertainment production for NBC.
Seinfeld is available here: https://bit.ly/3qywuD6
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42638558Mon, 28 Dec 2020 15:00:14 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Seinfeld (Series 8 Episode 20)   Seinfeld is an American sitcom television series created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld which ran on NBC from 1989 to 1998, over nine seasons and 180 episodes. The show stars Seinfeld as a... 
Seinfeld is an American sitcom television series created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld which ran on NBC from 1989 to 1998, over nine seasons and 180 episodes.

The show stars Seinfeld as a fictionalized version of himself who is the main protagonist and focuses on his personal life with three of friends - George Costanza (Jason Alexander), former girlfriend Elaine Benes (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), and neighbour across the hall Cosmo Kramer (Michael Richards). 

Seinfeld is set mostly in an apartment building in Manhattan's Upper West Side in New York City and has been described as "a show about nothing," often focusing on the minutiae of daily life.

Created by Larry David & Jerry Seinfeld.
Executive Produced by Larry David, George Shapiro, Howard West, Andrew Scheinman, Jerry Seinfeld, Alec Berg and Jeff Schaffer
Directed by various.
A Giggling Goose / Fred Barron Productions / West/Shapiro Productions / Castle Rock Entertainment production for NBC.
Seinfeld is available here: https://bit.ly/3qywuD6
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2659falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/126-round-the-horne--42596072 
Round the Horne was a BBC Radio comedy programme starring Kenneth Horne.

First transmitted in four series of weekly episodes from 1965 until 1968, the show was created by Barry Took and Marty Feldman, who wrote the first three series. The fourth was written by Took, Johnnie Mortimer, Brian Cooke and Donald Webster.

Horne's supporting cast comprised Kenneth Williams, Hugh Paddick, Betty Marsden and, in the first three series, Bill Pertwee, with Douglas Smith as the announcer, who also took part in the sketches.

All except the last series featured music by Edwin Braden, played by the band "the Hornblowers", with a song in the middle of each show performed by the close-harmony singing group the Fraser Hayes Four.

Written by Barry Took, Marty Feldman, Johnnie Mortimer, Brian Cooke and Donald Webster.
Produced by Jakes Brown and John Simmonds.
A BBC Radio Production.
Round The Horne is available through Audible: https://adbl.co/33PrsIx
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42596072Mon, 21 Dec 2020 15:06:46 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Round The Horne (Series 3 Episode 21)   Round the Horne was a BBC Radio comedy programme starring Kenneth Horne. First transmitted in four series of weekly episodes from 1965 until 1968, the show was created by Barry... 
Round the Horne was a BBC Radio comedy programme starring Kenneth Horne.

First transmitted in four series of weekly episodes from 1965 until 1968, the show was created by Barry Took and Marty Feldman, who wrote the first three series. The fourth was written by Took, Johnnie Mortimer, Brian Cooke and Donald Webster.

Horne's supporting cast comprised Kenneth Williams, Hugh Paddick, Betty Marsden and, in the first three series, Bill Pertwee, with Douglas Smith as the announcer, who also took part in the sketches.

All except the last series featured music by Edwin Braden, played by the band "the Hornblowers", with a song in the middle of each show performed by the close-harmony singing group the Fraser Hayes Four.

Written by Barry Took, Marty Feldman, Johnnie Mortimer, Brian Cooke and Donald Webster.
Produced by Jakes Brown and John Simmonds.
A BBC Radio Production.
Round The Horne is available through Audible: https://adbl.co/33PrsIx
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2749falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/125-giles-wemmbley-hogg-goes-off--42461564
Sitcom following the adventures of Giles Wemmbley Hogg. Traveller, backpacker, fearless investigator of cultural diversity... and an upper middle-class student from Budleigh Salterton.

Giles is a nice but rather dim upper-middle class ex-public school boy who records his adventures on his portable digital recorder as he travels around the world.

He rarely realises when things are going wrong, but listeners can hear the damage and offense that the young man inadvertently causes with every step he takes.

On his extensive travels, Giles manages to break the Terracotta Army, kill a very rare bird, accidentally lead a revolution in Cuba, bankrupt a Japanese financial institution and cause widespread offence at the World Cup.

Written by Marcus Brigstocke, Jeremy Salsby and Toby Davies.
Produced by David Tyler.
Directed by David Tyler.
A Pozzitive Production for the BBC.
Giles Wemmbley Hogg Goes Off is available through Audible: https://adbl.co/3gdJtoM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42461564Mon, 14 Dec 2020 15:00:05 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Giles Wemmbley Goes Off (Series 2 Episode 6) Sitcom following the adventures of Giles Wemmbley Hogg. Traveller, backpacker, fearless investigator of cultural diversity... and an upper middle-class student from Budleigh...
Sitcom following the adventures of Giles Wemmbley Hogg. Traveller, backpacker, fearless investigator of cultural diversity... and an upper middle-class student from Budleigh Salterton.

Giles is a nice but rather dim upper-middle class ex-public school boy who records his adventures on his portable digital recorder as he travels around the world.

He rarely realises when things are going wrong, but listeners can hear the damage and offense that the young man inadvertently causes with every step he takes.

On his extensive travels, Giles manages to break the Terracotta Army, kill a very rare bird, accidentally lead a revolution in Cuba, bankrupt a Japanese financial institution and cause widespread offence at the World Cup.

Written by Marcus Brigstocke, Jeremy Salsby and Toby Davies.
Produced by David Tyler.
Directed by David Tyler.
A Pozzitive Production for the BBC.
Giles Wemmbley Hogg Goes Off is available through Audible: https://adbl.co/3gdJtoM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2682falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/124-gavin-stacey--42350361 
Stacey is from Barry, near Cardiff, and Gavin is from Essex. But the difference in backgrounds and culture doesn't hinder their romance, which flourishes when they finally meet for the first time after hitting it off during numerous flirtatious work calls.

Stacey's guardian-uncle, Bryn, has pledged to look out for his niece - when not obsessing over his faulty satellite navigation system - whilst Gavin is doted on by his sometimes emotionally volatile mother, Pam, who only wants the best for her "little prince".

On the occasionally rocky route to Gavin and Stacey's wedding, the two very different sets of families and friends must learn to get along together. The couple's best friends, the forthright Nessa and best man Smithy, get along very well together too, but unfortunately only when they're drunk.

Written by James Corden & Ruth Jones.
Produced by Ted Dowd.
Directed by Christine Gernon.
A Baby Cow Manchester Production.
Gavin & Stacey is available here: https://bbc.in/3lixdEw
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42350361Mon, 07 Dec 2020 15:00:17 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Gavin & Stacey (Series 1 Episode 1)   Stacey is from Barry, near Cardiff, and Gavin is from Essex. But the difference in backgrounds and culture doesn't hinder their romance, which flourishes when they finally meet for the... 
Stacey is from Barry, near Cardiff, and Gavin is from Essex. But the difference in backgrounds and culture doesn't hinder their romance, which flourishes when they finally meet for the first time after hitting it off during numerous flirtatious work calls.

Stacey's guardian-uncle, Bryn, has pledged to look out for his niece - when not obsessing over his faulty satellite navigation system - whilst Gavin is doted on by his sometimes emotionally volatile mother, Pam, who only wants the best for her "little prince".

On the occasionally rocky route to Gavin and Stacey's wedding, the two very different sets of families and friends must learn to get along together. The couple's best friends, the forthright Nessa and best man Smithy, get along very well together too, but unfortunately only when they're drunk.

Written by James Corden & Ruth Jones.
Produced by Ted Dowd.
Directed by Christine Gernon.
A Baby Cow Manchester Production.
Gavin & Stacey is available here: https://bbc.in/3lixdEw
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2692falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/123-the-mighty-boosh--42229200 
Surreal sitcom following the adventures of Vince Noir and Howard Moon.

Vince and Howard are Zoo Keepers who work in the dysfunctional 'Zooniverse' along with the disturbing Dixon Bainbridge, Bob Fossil and Mrs Gideon.

The third series sees the action shifts to Naboo's second hand shop in Dalston. Needless to say they don't get much work done. This doesn't bother Naboo too much, firstly as the shop is really only a cover for his shady interplanetary Shaman business and secondly, he's usually quite chilled out from sampling his own magical herbs and remedies.

Written by Julian Barratt & Noel Fielding
Produced by Alson MacPhail & Spencer Millman.
Directed by Paul King.
A Baby Cow Production for BBC Three.
The Mighty Boosh is available here: https://bbc.in/3kWqsrQ
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42229200Mon, 30 Nov 2020 15:00:18 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Mighty Boosh (Series 3 Episodes 1)   Surreal sitcom following the adventures of Vince Noir and Howard Moon. Vince and Howard are Zoo Keepers who work in the dysfunctional 'Zooniverse' along with the disturbing Dixon... 
Surreal sitcom following the adventures of Vince Noir and Howard Moon.

Vince and Howard are Zoo Keepers who work in the dysfunctional 'Zooniverse' along with the disturbing Dixon Bainbridge, Bob Fossil and Mrs Gideon.

The third series sees the action shifts to Naboo's second hand shop in Dalston. Needless to say they don't get much work done. This doesn't bother Naboo too much, firstly as the shop is really only a cover for his shady interplanetary Shaman business and secondly, he's usually quite chilled out from sampling his own magical herbs and remedies.

Written by Julian Barratt & Noel Fielding
Produced by Alson MacPhail & Spencer Millman.
Directed by Paul King.
A Baby Cow Production for BBC Three.
The Mighty Boosh is available here: https://bbc.in/3kWqsrQ
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2740falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/122-the-break--42118522 
The Break is set in the fictional Yorkshire coastal town of Flamford - the seaside town sanity forgot - and features retired resident, Jeff Whittaker and his estranged London-bred financial whizz-kid nephew, Andy Chambers, who has arrived unannounced and stressed-out in desperate need of peace and quiet.

Andy gets neither of these as Jeff takes it upon himself to cure all of Andy's ills in a series of comic and poignant adventures around the town. Each week they meet Jeff's regular friends, Fish Shop Frank, Pest Control Supervisor, Corinne who has an 'arrangement' with Jeff every second Thursday, and Joyce Rickles from The Copper Kettle Café, who is constantly startled by everything, most of all her flamethrower toaster.

Written by Ian Brown and James Hendrie
Produced by Gordon Kennedy.
Directed by Gordon Kennedy.
An Absolutely Production for the BBC.
The Break is available here: https://bbc.in/2UDvG0J
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42118522Mon, 23 Nov 2020 15:00:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Break (Series 3 Episodes 1)   The Break is set in the fictional Yorkshire coastal town of Flamford - the seaside town sanity forgot - and features retired resident, Jeff Whittaker and his estranged London-bred financial... 
The Break is set in the fictional Yorkshire coastal town of Flamford - the seaside town sanity forgot - and features retired resident, Jeff Whittaker and his estranged London-bred financial whizz-kid nephew, Andy Chambers, who has arrived unannounced and stressed-out in desperate need of peace and quiet.

Andy gets neither of these as Jeff takes it upon himself to cure all of Andy's ills in a series of comic and poignant adventures around the town. Each week they meet Jeff's regular friends, Fish Shop Frank, Pest Control Supervisor, Corinne who has an 'arrangement' with Jeff every second Thursday, and Joyce Rickles from The Copper Kettle Café, who is constantly startled by everything, most of all her flamethrower toaster.

Written by Ian Brown and James Hendrie
Produced by Gordon Kennedy.
Directed by Gordon Kennedy.
An Absolutely Production for the BBC.
The Break is available here: https://bbc.in/2UDvG0J
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2443falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/121-stella-street--41983868
From the minds of John Sessions, Phil Cornwell and "The Comic Strip Presents …." creator Peter Richardson, Stella Street showcases the incredible mimicry talents of Sessions and Cornwell.

In Surbiton, Surrey, film stars Michael Caine, Jack Nicholson, Al Pacino and others share a street with the likes of musician David Bowie, and soccer pundit Jimmy Hill.

Although the residents are all in somewhat reduced circumstances they behave just like they're still in the bigtime. Rolling Stones Mick Jagger and Keith Richards run the nearby corner shop but continue to remember their halcyon days.

Written by John Sessions, Phil Cornwell & Peter Richardson
Produced by Ben Swaffer.
Directed by Peter Richardson.
A Tiger Aspect Production for BBC.
Stella Street is available here: https://amzn.to/3lrFZBb

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41983868Mon, 16 Nov 2020 15:00:11 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Stella Street (Series 3 Episodes 1 & 2) From the minds of John Sessions, Phil Cornwell and "The Comic Strip Presents …." creator Peter Richardson, Stella Street showcases the incredible mimicry talents of Sessions and...
From the minds of John Sessions, Phil Cornwell and "The Comic Strip Presents …." creator Peter Richardson, Stella Street showcases the incredible mimicry talents of Sessions and Cornwell.

In Surbiton, Surrey, film stars Michael Caine, Jack Nicholson, Al Pacino and others share a street with the likes of musician David Bowie, and soccer pundit Jimmy Hill.

Although the residents are all in somewhat reduced circumstances they behave just like they're still in the bigtime. Rolling Stones Mick Jagger and Keith Richards run the nearby corner shop but continue to remember their halcyon days.

Written by John Sessions, Phil Cornwell & Peter Richardson
Produced by Ben Swaffer.
Directed by Peter Richardson.
A Tiger Aspect Production for BBC.
Stella Street is available here: https://amzn.to/3lrFZBb

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2535falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/120-rob-newman-s-half-full-philosophy-hour--41878742 
Rob Newman tackles some of the great philosophical arguments that trouble him such as what if the right side of history is the wrong side of nature and how do we break up big tech before big tech breaks us?

In this episode, the award-winning comedian tells the story of the New Forest Stoic Philosophy Festival, and his part in its downfall as he traverses the weird world of philosophy

Written by Rob Newman.
Produced by Jon Harvey.
A Naked Production for BBC Radio 4.
Rob Newman's Half-Full Philosophy Hour is available here: https://bbc.in/3mHowEW
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41878742Mon, 09 Nov 2020 15:07:05 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Rob Newman's Half-Full Philosophy Hour (The New Forest Festival of Stoic Philosophy)   Rob Newman tackles some of the great philosophical arguments that trouble him such as what if the right side of history is the wrong side of... 
Rob Newman tackles some of the great philosophical arguments that trouble him such as what if the right side of history is the wrong side of nature and how do we break up big tech before big tech breaks us?

In this episode, the award-winning comedian tells the story of the New Forest Stoic Philosophy Festival, and his part in its downfall as he traverses the weird world of philosophy

Written by Rob Newman.
Produced by Jon Harvey.
A Naked Production for BBC Radio 4.
Rob Newman's Half-Full Philosophy Hour is available here: https://bbc.in/3mHowEW
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2756falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/119-after-life--41744244 
Set in the small fictitious town of Tambury, the series follows Tony, a writer for the local newspaper whose life is upended after his wife dies from cancer.

Tony had a perfect life. But following the death of his beloved wife Lisa to breast cancer, Tony changes.

Having contemplated taking his own life, he decides instead to punish the world by saying and doing whatever he likes. He feels it's like a Super Power, because if anything goes wrong, he always has the ultimate recourse to going through with suicide.

However, not caring about yourself or anyone else turns out to be tricky when everyone is trying to save the nice guy they used to know.

Written by Ricky Gervais
Produced by Charlie Hanson.
Directed By Ricky Gervais.
A Derek Productions Limited for Netflix.
After Life is available here: https://bit.ly/361Nyb1
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41744244Mon, 02 Nov 2020 15:00:04 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - After Life (Series 1 Episode 1)   Set in the small fictitious town of Tambury, the series follows Tony, a writer for the local newspaper whose life is upended after his wife dies from cancer. Tony had a perfect life. But... 
Set in the small fictitious town of Tambury, the series follows Tony, a writer for the local newspaper whose life is upended after his wife dies from cancer.

Tony had a perfect life. But following the death of his beloved wife Lisa to breast cancer, Tony changes.

Having contemplated taking his own life, he decides instead to punish the world by saying and doing whatever he likes. He feels it's like a Super Power, because if anything goes wrong, he always has the ultimate recourse to going through with suicide.

However, not caring about yourself or anyone else turns out to be tricky when everyone is trying to save the nice guy they used to know.

Written by Ricky Gervais
Produced by Charlie Hanson.
Directed By Ricky Gervais.
A Derek Productions Limited for Netflix.
After Life is available here: https://bit.ly/361Nyb1
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2688falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/118-stand-up-for-live-comedy--41642863
Stand-up comedy is a vital part of our British culture, and this series aims to support grassroots comedy talent in light of the significant impact Covid-19 has had on the stand-up comedy industry.

Stand Up For Live Comedy is filmed in six different cities across the UK in outdoor locations with socially distanced audiences, with a mission to kickstart live stand-up again.

We review episode 3 - Birmingham

Produced by Adele Fowler.
Directed By Geri Dowd.
A Phil McIntyre Television Production for BBC.
Stand Up For Live Comedy is available here: https://bbc.in/2TngsfQ

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41642863Mon, 26 Oct 2020 15:00:18 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Stand Up for Live Comedy (Series 1 Episode 3) Stand-up comedy is a vital part of our British culture, and this series aims to support grassroots comedy talent in light of the significant impact Covid-19 has had on the...
Stand-up comedy is a vital part of our British culture, and this series aims to support grassroots comedy talent in light of the significant impact Covid-19 has had on the stand-up comedy industry.

Stand Up For Live Comedy is filmed in six different cities across the UK in outdoor locations with socially distanced audiences, with a mission to kickstart live stand-up again.

We review episode 3 - Birmingham

Produced by Adele Fowler.
Directed By Geri Dowd.
A Phil McIntyre Television Production for BBC.
Stand Up For Live Comedy is available here: https://bbc.in/2TngsfQ

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2709falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/117-spitting-image--41531112 
First broadcast in February 1984, the series was produced by 'Spitting Image Productions' for Central Independent Television over 18 series which aired on the ITV network. The series was nominated and won numerous awards, including ten BAFTA's and two Emmy's.

One of the most watched shows of the 1980s and early 1990s, Spitting Image satirised politics, entertainment, sport and British pop culture of the era and at it's peak it was watched by 15 million people. The series was cancelled in 1996 after viewing figures declined.

ITV had plans for a new series in 2006, but these were scrapped after a dispute over the Ant & Dec puppets used to host Best Ever Spitting Image were created against Roger Law's wishes.

 The revived series debuted on 3 October 2020 on BritBox.

Created by Peter Fluck and Roger Law
Produced by Matt Stronge.
Directed By Andy De Emmony & Steve Connelly.
An Avalon Production for Britbox.
Spitting Image is available here: https://bit.ly/3iT49Cv
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41531112Mon, 19 Oct 2020 14:00:13 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Spitting Image (Series 21 Episode 1)   First broadcast in February 1984, the series was produced by 'Spitting Image Productions' for Central Independent Television over 18 series which aired on the ITV network. The series was... 
First broadcast in February 1984, the series was produced by 'Spitting Image Productions' for Central Independent Television over 18 series which aired on the ITV network. The series was nominated and won numerous awards, including ten BAFTA's and two Emmy's.

One of the most watched shows of the 1980s and early 1990s, Spitting Image satirised politics, entertainment, sport and British pop culture of the era and at it's peak it was watched by 15 million people. The series was cancelled in 1996 after viewing figures declined.

ITV had plans for a new series in 2006, but these were scrapped after a dispute over the Ant & Dec puppets used to host Best Ever Spitting Image were created against Roger Law's wishes.

 The revived series debuted on 3 October 2020 on BritBox.

Created by Peter Fluck and Roger Law
Produced by Matt Stronge.
Directed By Andy De Emmony & Steve Connelly.
An Avalon Production for Britbox.
Spitting Image is available here: https://bit.ly/3iT49Cv
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2719falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/116-alan-partridge-from-the-oast-house--41420513 
Alan Partridge is a familiar face (and voice!) to anyone who enjoys genuinely good television (and radio!), having been seen (and heard!) on shows that have delighted the eyes (and ears!) of viewers (and listeners!) for decades, including BBC teatime show This Time (and North Norfolk Digital coffeetime show Mid Morning Matters!).

Broadcaster, writer, motivational speaker, sports fan, thought-leader, businessman and consummate professional, Alan enjoys bitter shandy, shandied lager, high-end knitwear and personal success. He is currently doing very well indeed.

Recorded largely from Alan Partridge’s home - a converted oast house set amid rolling countryside - the series will see Alan open a portal into his mind and siphon off some of his choicest thoughts from wit to wisdom, from musings to moanings and everything in between.

Written by Steve Coogan, Rob Gibbons & Neil Gibbons.
Produced by Joe Fraser.
Directed By Neil & Rob Gibbons.
A Baby Cow / CH Podcasts Production for Audible.
Alan Partridge from the Oast House is available here: https://adbl.co/3izHScI
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41420513Mon, 12 Oct 2020 14:00:07 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Alan Partridge From The Oasthouse (Episode 5)   Alan Partridge is a familiar face (and voice!) to anyone who enjoys genuinely good television (and radio!), having been seen (and heard!) on shows that have delighted the eyes... 
Alan Partridge is a familiar face (and voice!) to anyone who enjoys genuinely good television (and radio!), having been seen (and heard!) on shows that have delighted the eyes (and ears!) of viewers (and listeners!) for decades, including BBC teatime show This Time (and North Norfolk Digital coffeetime show Mid Morning Matters!).

Broadcaster, writer, motivational speaker, sports fan, thought-leader, businessman and consummate professional, Alan enjoys bitter shandy, shandied lager, high-end knitwear and personal success. He is currently doing very well indeed.

Recorded largely from Alan Partridge’s home - a converted oast house set amid rolling countryside - the series will see Alan open a portal into his mind and siphon off some of his choicest thoughts from wit to wisdom, from musings to moanings and everything in between.

Written by Steve Coogan, Rob Gibbons & Neil Gibbons.
Produced by Joe Fraser.
Directed By Neil & Rob Gibbons.
A Baby Cow / CH Podcasts Production for Audible.
Alan Partridge from the Oast House is available here: https://adbl.co/3izHScI
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2771falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/115-red-dwarf--41268149
Following a catastrophic leak of radiation aboard mining space ship Red Dwarf, technician Dave Lister finds himself as the last living human. Having been held in a form of suspended animation known as stasis at the time of the leak he was shielded from its fatal effects whilst all of his colleagues were turned into piles of dust.

Now, some 3 million years later with background radiation at a safe level, the ship's computer Holly has revived him in readiness for the long journey home. However, Dave's not quite alone: his arch-nemesis and workmate, Rimmer, survives as a Hologram; as does a descendant of Lister's own pet cat, called Cat; and Kryten, an emotionless android.

Red Dwarf follows their adventures across the universe as they attempt to get back to Earth and discover whether Lister really is the last surviving human being.

Written by Doug Naylor & Rob Grant
Produced by Richard Naylor.
Directed By Doug Naylor.
An Owl Power Production for BBC.
Red Dwarf is available here: https://bit.ly/3mTS3w5

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41268149Mon, 05 Oct 2020 14:00:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Red Dwarf (Series 10 Episode 1) Following a catastrophic leak of radiation aboard mining space ship Red Dwarf, technician Dave Lister finds himself as the last living human. Having been held in a form of suspended animation...
Following a catastrophic leak of radiation aboard mining space ship Red Dwarf, technician Dave Lister finds himself as the last living human. Having been held in a form of suspended animation known as stasis at the time of the leak he was shielded from its fatal effects whilst all of his colleagues were turned into piles of dust.

Now, some 3 million years later with background radiation at a safe level, the ship's computer Holly has revived him in readiness for the long journey home. However, Dave's not quite alone: his arch-nemesis and workmate, Rimmer, survives as a Hologram; as does a descendant of Lister's own pet cat, called Cat; and Kryten, an emotionless android.

Red Dwarf follows their adventures across the universe as they attempt to get back to Earth and discover whether Lister really is the last surviving human being.

Written by Doug Naylor & Rob Grant
Produced by Richard Naylor.
Directed By Doug Naylor.
An Owl Power Production for BBC.
Red Dwarf is available here: https://bit.ly/3mTS3w5

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2701falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/114-mortimer-whitehouse-gone-fishing--41179341
Paul Whitehouse is an experienced fisherman; Bob Mortimer is a complete novice. Their friendship stretches back for decades, but they've recently reconnected after both suffering very serious heart problems and each staring death in the face.

Paul has suggested to Bob that he take up fishing to help recover from his triple heart bypass. Now, these two much loved comedians tour the country to fish side by side in some of the most picturesque landscapes the UK has to offer.

Across the half-hour episodes they dissect life, death and comedy. Paul is in charge of the fishing while Bob is in charge of the accommodation and cooking heart-healthy food. From recipes, regrets, relationships and rituals; to childhood, comedy and the countryside, the pair discuss everything alongside the ever-present shadows of showbiz and mortality.

Produced by Nicky Waltham, Stephanie Fyfe and Luke Holland.
Directed By Rob Gill.
An Owl Power Production for BBC.
Mortimer & Whitehouse Gone Fishing is available here: https://bbc.in/2ZW5j9t

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41179341Mon, 28 Sep 2020 14:00:10 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Hitmen (Series 3 Episode 4) Paul Whitehouse is an experienced fisherman; Bob Mortimer is a complete novice. Their friendship stretches back for decades, but they've recently reconnected after both suffering very serious heart...
Paul Whitehouse is an experienced fisherman; Bob Mortimer is a complete novice. Their friendship stretches back for decades, but they've recently reconnected after both suffering very serious heart problems and each staring death in the face.

Paul has suggested to Bob that he take up fishing to help recover from his triple heart bypass. Now, these two much loved comedians tour the country to fish side by side in some of the most picturesque landscapes the UK has to offer.

Across the half-hour episodes they dissect life, death and comedy. Paul is in charge of the fishing while Bob is in charge of the accommodation and cooking heart-healthy food. From recipes, regrets, relationships and rituals; to childhood, comedy and the countryside, the pair discuss everything alongside the ever-present shadows of showbiz and mortality.

Produced by Nicky Waltham, Stephanie Fyfe and Luke Holland.
Directed By Rob Gill.
An Owl Power Production for BBC.
Mortimer & Whitehouse Gone Fishing is available here: https://bbc.in/2ZW5j9t

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2691falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/113-hitmen--41018782
Hitmen is about two best friends trying to make their way in the world with only each other to rely on. They also just happen to kill people for a living.

Having stumbled into a career in contract killing, misfits Fran and Jamie are not your typical killers for hire. Working out of their scruffy van, each episode follows the hapless duo as they try to carry out their latest hit, inevitably derailed by incompetence, bickering, and inane antics. As each hit goes south, our (anti)heroes are thrown into one bizarre misadventure after another, each full of oddball characters and unexpected dilemmas.

Across the series, as the mishaps - and bodies - rack up, Fran and Jamie's friendship is put through the wringer: while affable goof Jamie seems content to spend her days hanging out with her best mate, the more sensitive Fran starts to question whether it's really the life she wants. Will their friendship survive their trials and tribulations? More to the point, as the jobs get increasingly dangerous, will they even survive?

Written by Joe Parham and Joe Markham.
Produced by Arnold Widdowson.
Directed By Oliver Parsons.
A Tiger Aspect Production for Sky.
Hitmen is available here: https://bit.ly/2RmahI5

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41018782Mon, 21 Sep 2020 14:00:19 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Hitmen (Series 1 Episode 1) Hitmen is about two best friends trying to make their way in the world with only each other to rely on. They also just happen to kill people for a living. Having stumbled into a career in...
Hitmen is about two best friends trying to make their way in the world with only each other to rely on. They also just happen to kill people for a living.

Having stumbled into a career in contract killing, misfits Fran and Jamie are not your typical killers for hire. Working out of their scruffy van, each episode follows the hapless duo as they try to carry out their latest hit, inevitably derailed by incompetence, bickering, and inane antics. As each hit goes south, our (anti)heroes are thrown into one bizarre misadventure after another, each full of oddball characters and unexpected dilemmas.

Across the series, as the mishaps - and bodies - rack up, Fran and Jamie's friendship is put through the wringer: while affable goof Jamie seems content to spend her days hanging out with her best mate, the more sensitive Fran starts to question whether it's really the life she wants. Will their friendship survive their trials and tribulations? More to the point, as the jobs get increasingly dangerous, will they even survive?

Written by Joe Parham and Joe Markham.
Produced by Arnold Widdowson.
Directed By Oliver Parsons.
A Tiger Aspect Production for Sky.
Hitmen is available here: https://bit.ly/2RmahI5

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2707falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/112-detectorists--40878216
Detectorists follows the relationship between two friends who share a passion for metal detecting.

When Andy and Lance are together, they're like an old married couple. They gripe at each other, but there is a true bond underneath.

Each has their own slightly dysfunctional lives but together they dream of finding a priceless Saxon hoard that will cement their place in detecting history.

Helping them along the way is a delightfully quirky crowd of characters who are drawn to this all-absorbing hobby.

Written by Mackenzie Crook.
Produced by Adam Tandy & Gill Isles.
Directed By Mackenzie Crook.
A Treasure Trove / Channel X North / Lola Entertainment Production for BBC.
The Detectorists is available here: https://bbc.in/3jW4TaU

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40878216Mon, 14 Sep 2020 14:00:08 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Detectorists (Series 3 Episode 1) Detectorists follows the relationship between two friends who share a passion for metal detecting. When Andy and Lance are together, they're like an old married couple. They gripe at each...
Detectorists follows the relationship between two friends who share a passion for metal detecting.

When Andy and Lance are together, they're like an old married couple. They gripe at each other, but there is a true bond underneath.

Each has their own slightly dysfunctional lives but together they dream of finding a priceless Saxon hoard that will cement their place in detecting history.

Helping them along the way is a delightfully quirky crowd of characters who are drawn to this all-absorbing hobby.

Written by Mackenzie Crook.
Produced by Adam Tandy & Gill Isles.
Directed By Mackenzie Crook.
A Treasure Trove / Channel X North / Lola Entertainment Production for BBC.
The Detectorists is available here: https://bbc.in/3jW4TaU

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2622falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/111-staged--40738884 
David Tennant and Michael Sheen (playing themselves) were due to star in a production of Six Characters In Search Of An Author in the West End.

The pandemic has put paid to that, but their director (Simon Evans - also playing himself) is determined not to let the opportunity pass him by. He knows how big a chance this is for him and turns his attention to cajoling his stars into rehearsing over the internet.

All they need to do is read the first scene, but throughout the series they come up against a multitude of oppositional forces: distraction, boredom, home-schooling and their own egos.

Written by Simon Evans.
Produced by Phin Glynn, Victor Glynn & Georgia Tennant.
Directed By Simon Evans.
An Infinity Hill / GCB Films Production for BBC.
Staged is available here: https://bbc.in/32L7fT4
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40738884Mon, 07 Sep 2020 14:00:22 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Staged (Series 1 Episode 1)   David Tennant and Michael Sheen (playing themselves) were due to star in a production of Six Characters In Search Of An Author in the West End. The pandemic has put paid to that, but their... 
David Tennant and Michael Sheen (playing themselves) were due to star in a production of Six Characters In Search Of An Author in the West End.

The pandemic has put paid to that, but their director (Simon Evans - also playing himself) is determined not to let the opportunity pass him by. He knows how big a chance this is for him and turns his attention to cajoling his stars into rehearsing over the internet.

All they need to do is read the first scene, but throughout the series they come up against a multitude of oppositional forces: distraction, boredom, home-schooling and their own egos.

Written by Simon Evans.
Produced by Phin Glynn, Victor Glynn & Georgia Tennant.
Directed By Simon Evans.
An Infinity Hill / GCB Films Production for BBC.
Staged is available here: https://bbc.in/32L7fT4
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2689falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/110-tom-wrigglesworth-s-open-letters--40593398
This series started life as a one-off recording of Tom Wrigglesworth's Edinburgh Comedy Award nominated stand-up routine about a rude and unhelpful train guard.

After the success of this first show, Tom was commissioned to return to Radio 4 to regale his audience with more tales of corporate lunacy and ridiculous rip-offs.

Through the medium of four open letters, Tom investigates the countless examples of corporate lunacy and maddening "jobsworths" in modern Britain. His subjects range from traffic wardens to estate agents, with Tom recalling his own funny and ridiculous experiences as well as recounting the absurd encounters of others.

It's a show about being proud and sticking up for what is right.

Written by Tom Wrigglesworth and James Kettle
Produced by Simon Mayhew-Archer
A Phil McIntyre Television Production for BBC.
Tom Wrigglesworth's Open Letters is available here: https://bit.ly/3jaoAeD

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40593398Mon, 31 Aug 2020 14:00:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Tom Wrigglesworth's Open Letters (Series 1 Episode 4) This series started life as a one-off recording of Tom Wrigglesworth's Edinburgh Comedy Award nominated stand-up routine about a rude and unhelpful train guard. After...
This series started life as a one-off recording of Tom Wrigglesworth's Edinburgh Comedy Award nominated stand-up routine about a rude and unhelpful train guard.

After the success of this first show, Tom was commissioned to return to Radio 4 to regale his audience with more tales of corporate lunacy and ridiculous rip-offs.

Through the medium of four open letters, Tom investigates the countless examples of corporate lunacy and maddening "jobsworths" in modern Britain. His subjects range from traffic wardens to estate agents, with Tom recalling his own funny and ridiculous experiences as well as recounting the absurd encounters of others.

It's a show about being proud and sticking up for what is right.

Written by Tom Wrigglesworth and James Kettle
Produced by Simon Mayhew-Archer
A Phil McIntyre Television Production for BBC.
Tom Wrigglesworth's Open Letters is available here: https://bit.ly/3jaoAeD

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2669falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/109-early-doors--40463314 
Gentle paced comedy series set in a small Manchester public house. Landlord Ken has been left by his wife (for his best friend), but lives with his adopted daughter Melanie and mother Jean. He is assisted at the bar by reliable Tanya.

The regulars in the pub include lazy skiving husbands Joe and Duffy; dense but friendly couple Eddie and Joan; old git Tommy; and useless coppers Phil and Nige.

Written by Craig Cash & Phil Mealey
Produced by Lucy Ansbro & John Rushton
Directed by Craig Cash
A Phil McIntyre Television Production for BBC.
Early Doors is available here: https://amzn.to/2FunD25
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40463314Mon, 24 Aug 2020 14:00:06 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Early Doors (Series 2 Episode 1)   Gentle paced comedy series set in a small Manchester public house. Landlord Ken has been left by his wife (for his best friend), but lives with his adopted daughter Melanie and mother Jean. He... 
Gentle paced comedy series set in a small Manchester public house. Landlord Ken has been left by his wife (for his best friend), but lives with his adopted daughter Melanie and mother Jean. He is assisted at the bar by reliable Tanya.

The regulars in the pub include lazy skiving husbands Joe and Duffy; dense but friendly couple Eddie and Joan; old git Tommy; and useless coppers Phil and Nige.

Written by Craig Cash & Phil Mealey
Produced by Lucy Ansbro & John Rushton
Directed by Craig Cash
A Phil McIntyre Television Production for BBC.
Early Doors is available here: https://amzn.to/2FunD25
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2598falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/108-parks-recreation--40369893
Parks and Recreation is an American political satire sitcom television series created by Greg Daniels and Michael Schur.

It stars Amy Poehler as Leslie Knope, a perky, mid-level bureaucrat in the Parks Department of Pawnee, a fictional town in Indiana. The ensemble and supporting cast features Rashida Jones, Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman, Aubrey Plaza, Chris Pratt, Adam Scott and Rob Lowe.

The writers researched local California politics for the series, and consulted with urban planners and elected officials and the Leslie Knope character underwent major changes after the first season, in response to audience feedback that the character seemed unintelligent and "ditzy".

Written by Alan Yang
Produced by Greg Daniels / Dan Goor / Norm Hiscock / Dean Holland
David Hyman / Emily Kapnek / Howard Klein / Steve Mesner / David Miner
Amy Poehler / Tom Ragazzo / Morgan Sackett / Michael Schur and Emily Spivey
Directed by Dean Holland.
An Open 4 Business Production.
Parks & recreation is available here: https://amzn.to/3gPl8W0

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40369893Mon, 17 Aug 2020 14:19:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Parks & Recreation (Series 3 Episode 1) Parks and Recreation is an American political satire sitcom television series created by Greg Daniels and Michael Schur. It stars Amy Poehler as Leslie Knope, a perky, mid-level...
Parks and Recreation is an American political satire sitcom television series created by Greg Daniels and Michael Schur.

It stars Amy Poehler as Leslie Knope, a perky, mid-level bureaucrat in the Parks Department of Pawnee, a fictional town in Indiana. The ensemble and supporting cast features Rashida Jones, Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman, Aubrey Plaza, Chris Pratt, Adam Scott and Rob Lowe.

The writers researched local California politics for the series, and consulted with urban planners and elected officials and the Leslie Knope character underwent major changes after the first season, in response to audience feedback that the character seemed unintelligent and "ditzy".

Written by Alan Yang
Produced by Greg Daniels / Dan Goor / Norm Hiscock / Dean Holland
David Hyman / Emily Kapnek / Howard Klein / Steve Mesner / David Miner
Amy Poehler / Tom Ragazzo / Morgan Sackett / Michael Schur and Emily Spivey
Directed by Dean Holland.
An Open 4 Business Production.
Parks & recreation is available here: https://amzn.to/3gPl8W0

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2540falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/107-what-we-do-in-the-shadows--40138852 
Set in Staten Island, What We Do in the Shadows follows the lives of three traditional vampires; Nandor, Laszlo, and Nadja; Colin Robinson, an energy vampire; and Guillermo, Nandor's familiar.

The series revolves around the centuries-old vampires interacting with the modern world and other supernatural beings.

Written by Jermaine Clement
Produced by Joanne Toll & Hartley Gorenstein
Directed by Taika Waititi
An FX / Two Canoes Pictures / 343 Incorporated production for FX.
What We Do In The Shadows is available here: https://bbc.in/3jZ6ZaR
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40138852Mon, 10 Aug 2020 14:00:12 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - What We Do In The Shadows (Series 1 Episode 1)   Set in Staten Island, What We Do in the Shadows follows the lives of three traditional vampires; Nandor, Laszlo, and Nadja; Colin Robinson, an energy vampire; and Guillermo,... 
Set in Staten Island, What We Do in the Shadows follows the lives of three traditional vampires; Nandor, Laszlo, and Nadja; Colin Robinson, an energy vampire; and Guillermo, Nandor's familiar.

The series revolves around the centuries-old vampires interacting with the modern world and other supernatural beings.

Written by Jermaine Clement
Produced by Joanne Toll & Hartley Gorenstein
Directed by Taika Waititi
An FX / Two Canoes Pictures / 343 Incorporated production for FX.
What We Do In The Shadows is available here: https://bbc.in/3jZ6ZaR
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2746falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/106-relativity--40110058 
Death, birth, falling in and out of love, resentment over forgotten slights and indestructible affection - it's all relative.

Relativity is a witty and loving portrait of family life, with affectionate observation of inter generational misunderstanding, sibling sparring and the ties that bind, that will resonate with anyone who has ever argued with their dad about how to pronounce crisp brand names.

Written by Richard Herring.
Produced by Polly Thomas.
An Avalon TV Production for BBC Radio 4.
Relativity is available here: https://bbc.in/301EKA6
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40110058Mon, 03 Aug 2020 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Relativity (Series 3 Episode 2)   Death, birth, falling in and out of love, resentment over forgotten slights and indestructible affection - it's all relative. Relativity is a witty and loving portrait of family life, with... 
Death, birth, falling in and out of love, resentment over forgotten slights and indestructible affection - it's all relative.

Relativity is a witty and loving portrait of family life, with affectionate observation of inter generational misunderstanding, sibling sparring and the ties that bind, that will resonate with anyone who has ever argued with their dad about how to pronounce crisp brand names.

Written by Richard Herring.
Produced by Polly Thomas.
An Avalon TV Production for BBC Radio 4.
Relativity is available here: https://bbc.in/301EKA6
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2608falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/105-ever-decreasing-circles--40000160 
Martin Bryce lives in a cul de sac in a quiet suburban area.

He is the chairman of every club committee going and believes himself to be the pivotal member of the community.

The stability of Martin's life is disturbed when Paul moves in next door. He has the poise, looks and self-confidence to dent Martin's self-imposed rule of 'the Close'.

His wife, Ann, has tolerated his compulsive behaviour as she knows he is a good man at heart, but Paul is somebody who will test her loyalty to Martin in more ways than one. 

Written by John Esmonde & Bob Larbey.
Produced & Directed by Sydney Lotterby & Harold Snoad.
A BBC Production.
Ever Decreasing Circles is available to buy here: https://amzn.to/3eN15FV
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40000160Mon, 27 Jul 2020 14:00:21 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Ever Decreasing Circles (Series 3 Episode 3)   Martin Bryce lives in a cul de sac in a quiet suburban area. He is the chairman of every club committee going and believes himself to be the pivotal member of the community.... 
Martin Bryce lives in a cul de sac in a quiet suburban area.

He is the chairman of every club committee going and believes himself to be the pivotal member of the community.

The stability of Martin's life is disturbed when Paul moves in next door. He has the poise, looks and self-confidence to dent Martin's self-imposed rule of 'the Close'.

His wife, Ann, has tolerated his compulsive behaviour as she knows he is a good man at heart, but Paul is somebody who will test her loyalty to Martin in more ways than one. 

Written by John Esmonde & Bob Larbey.
Produced & Directed by Sydney Lotterby & Harold Snoad.
A BBC Production.
Ever Decreasing Circles is available to buy here: https://amzn.to/3eN15FV
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2734falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/104-dead-ringers--39851558
Dead Ringers is an impressionist show with a satirical bite.
Regular victims in the original series - which starred Jon Culshaw, Jan Ravens, Phil Cornwell, Kevin Connelly and Mark Perry - included Tony Blair, who keeps referring to his physical mannerisms; an almost totally incoherent Robin Cook; and the gaff-strewn speeches of George W. Bush.

As well as mocking politicians, Dead Ringers also makes fun of other Radio 4 programmes and personalities. Regular victims include the cast of The Archers, the (now no-longer running) patronising children's show Go4It, the surprisingly adult adventures of Alan Bennett and Thora Hird, and the most feared man on in the world, the bloodthirsty "Godfather of Radio 4", announcer Brian Perkins.

The episodes also feature a range of hoax calls, most of them involving the voice of the Tom Baker version of Doctor Who.

After 7 years off-air, the show returned in 2014 with a new cast of characters, and new cast members. Now, once again, no one is safe from merciless parody as the show aims to take down every programme, institution and politician you hold dear.

Written by Nev Fountain, Tom Jamieson, Laurence Howarth, Tom Coles, James Bugg, Ed Amsden, Simon Alcock, Alex Hardy, Edward Tew, Cody Dahler, Gareth Ceredig, Jeffrey Aidoo, Cassie Smith, and Athena Kugblenu.
Produced by Bill Dare.
A BBC Studios Production
Dead Ringers is available here: https://bbc.in/2ZI7Y6X

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/39851558Mon, 20 Jul 2020 14:00:17 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Dead Ringers (Series 20 Episode 5) Dead Ringers is an impressionist show with a satirical bite. Regular victims in the original series - which starred Jon Culshaw, Jan Ravens, Phil Cornwell, Kevin Connelly and Mark Perry -...
Dead Ringers is an impressionist show with a satirical bite.
Regular victims in the original series - which starred Jon Culshaw, Jan Ravens, Phil Cornwell, Kevin Connelly and Mark Perry - included Tony Blair, who keeps referring to his physical mannerisms; an almost totally incoherent Robin Cook; and the gaff-strewn speeches of George W. Bush.

As well as mocking politicians, Dead Ringers also makes fun of other Radio 4 programmes and personalities. Regular victims include the cast of The Archers, the (now no-longer running) patronising children's show Go4It, the surprisingly adult adventures of Alan Bennett and Thora Hird, and the most feared man on in the world, the bloodthirsty "Godfather of Radio 4", announcer Brian Perkins.

The episodes also feature a range of hoax calls, most of them involving the voice of the Tom Baker version of Doctor Who.

After 7 years off-air, the show returned in 2014 with a new cast of characters, and new cast members. Now, once again, no one is safe from merciless parody as the show aims to take down every programme, institution and politician you hold dear.

Written by Nev Fountain, Tom Jamieson, Laurence Howarth, Tom Coles, James Bugg, Ed Amsden, Simon Alcock, Alex Hardy, Edward Tew, Cody Dahler, Gareth Ceredig, Jeffrey Aidoo, Cassie Smith, and Athena Kugblenu.
Produced by Bill Dare.
A BBC Studios Production
Dead Ringers is available here: https://bbc.in/2ZI7Y6X

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2759falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/103-the-blagger-s-guide--39418817 
David Quantick presents a light hearted guide to music, in which not every fact is a truth.
In the first two series, The Blagger's Guide aimed to provide an encyclopaedia guide to rock and pop. Entries on artists, movements and places as diverse as Sheffield, Folk, Stadium Rock, Stax and Madonna all featured.
The third series switched to looking at The Classics - Beethoven, Bach, Tchaikovsky and music of that ilk.
Series four, lengthened to eight episodes, returned to the topics of rock and pop. Whilst in the 2008 series David Quantick looked to teach us more about Country music.
The six-part 2009 series presented 'facts' about jazz, and 2012's series looks at the Olympic Games.
There have been various one-off specials since.
 
Wrtitten by David Quantick & Simon Poole.
Produced by Simon Poole.
A Unique Production for BBC radio 2
Sadly, we couldn’t find this show anywhere.
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/39418817Mon, 13 Jul 2020 14:00:17 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Blagger's Guide (Series 2 Episode 2)   David Quantick presents a light hearted guide to music, in which not every fact is a truth. In the first two series, The Blagger's Guide aimed to provide an encyclopaedia guide to... 
David Quantick presents a light hearted guide to music, in which not every fact is a truth.
In the first two series, The Blagger's Guide aimed to provide an encyclopaedia guide to rock and pop. Entries on artists, movements and places as diverse as Sheffield, Folk, Stadium Rock, Stax and Madonna all featured.
The third series switched to looking at The Classics - Beethoven, Bach, Tchaikovsky and music of that ilk.
Series four, lengthened to eight episodes, returned to the topics of rock and pop. Whilst in the 2008 series David Quantick looked to teach us more about Country music.
The six-part 2009 series presented 'facts' about jazz, and 2012's series looks at the Olympic Games.
There have been various one-off specials since.
 
Wrtitten by David Quantick & Simon Poole.
Produced by Simon Poole.
A Unique Production for BBC radio 2
Sadly, we couldn’t find this show anywhere.
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2759falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/102-dave--36320062 
The series stars a fictionalised version of Lil Dicky, a suburban neurotic man in his late twenties who has convinced himself that he's destined to be one of the best rappers of all time

The co-creator of the show Dave Burd (better known by his stage name Lil Dicky) is an American rapper and comedian.

He came to prominence with the release of the music video of his song "Ex-Boyfriend" on April 25, 2013, which became popular with more than one million views on YouTube in 24 hours.

He released his debut album Professional Rapper in July 2015. In 2018, his song "Freaky Friday", featuring Chris Brown, became a worldwide hit. He also gained attention for his 2019 music video "Earth", which featured many singers and actors including Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, Kevin Hart, Wiz Khalifa, Charlie Puth, Katy Perry, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
 
Created by Dave Burd / Jeff Schaffer.
Produced by Julie Waters / Kent Zbornak
Directed by Michael Cumming
A Dirty Burd / Matthew 6:33 / SB Projects / Temple Hill / Heart Beat / Chicken Sticks Production for FX.
Dave is available here: https://bbc.in/3eICHG4
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/36320062Mon, 06 Jul 2020 14:00:15 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Dave (Series 1 Episode 3)   The series stars a fictionalised version of Lil Dicky, a suburban neurotic man in his late twenties who has convinced himself that he's destined to be one of the best rappers of all time The... 
The series stars a fictionalised version of Lil Dicky, a suburban neurotic man in his late twenties who has convinced himself that he's destined to be one of the best rappers of all time

The co-creator of the show Dave Burd (better known by his stage name Lil Dicky) is an American rapper and comedian.

He came to prominence with the release of the music video of his song "Ex-Boyfriend" on April 25, 2013, which became popular with more than one million views on YouTube in 24 hours.

He released his debut album Professional Rapper in July 2015. In 2018, his song "Freaky Friday", featuring Chris Brown, became a worldwide hit. He also gained attention for his 2019 music video "Earth", which featured many singers and actors including Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, Kevin Hart, Wiz Khalifa, Charlie Puth, Katy Perry, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
 
Created by Dave Burd / Jeff Schaffer.
Produced by Julie Waters / Kent Zbornak
Directed by Michael Cumming
A Dirty Burd / Matthew 6:33 / SB Projects / Temple Hill / Heart Beat / Chicken Sticks Production for FX.
Dave is available here: https://bbc.in/3eICHG4
 
The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
 
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
 
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3473truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/101-brass-eye--34411283
Brass Eye is a British television comedy series which parodied the current affairs news programming of the day.

A series of six episodes aired on Channel 4 in 1997, and a further episode in 2001.

The series was created and presented by Chris Morris, written by Morris, David Quantick, Peter Baynham, Jane Bussmann, Arthur Mathews, Graham Linehan and Charlie Brooker and was directed by Michael Cumming.

Originally planned as a spin-off from The Day Today (1994), the pilot (then called Torque tv™) was passed on by the BBC. Channel 4 commissioned a new pilot, which would become called Brass Eye (mixing together the titles of two popular current affairs shows, Brass Tacks and Public Eye).

The series satirised media portrayal of social ills, in particular sensationalism, unsubstantiated establishmentarian theory masquerading as fact, and creation of moral panics, and is a sequel to Morris's earlier spoof news programmes On the Hour (1991–92) on radio and The Day Today (1994) on TV.

The series stars Morris's The Day Today colleague Doon Mackichan, along with Gina McKee, Mark Heap, Amelia Bullmore, Simon Pegg, Julia Davis, Claire Skinner, John Guerrasio, Hugh Dennis and Kevin Eldon.

Written by Chris Morris.
Produced by Caroline Leddy & Chris Morris
Directed by Michael Cumming
A Talkback Production for Channel 4.
Brass Eye is available to here: https://bit.ly/2BlgAqH

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/34411283Mon, 29 Jun 2020 14:00:09 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Brass Eye - Decline (Series 1 Episode 6) Brass Eye is a British television comedy series which parodied the current affairs news programming of the day. A series of six episodes aired on Channel 4 in 1997, and a further...
Brass Eye is a British television comedy series which parodied the current affairs news programming of the day.

A series of six episodes aired on Channel 4 in 1997, and a further episode in 2001.

The series was created and presented by Chris Morris, written by Morris, David Quantick, Peter Baynham, Jane Bussmann, Arthur Mathews, Graham Linehan and Charlie Brooker and was directed by Michael Cumming.

Originally planned as a spin-off from The Day Today (1994), the pilot (then called Torque tv™) was passed on by the BBC. Channel 4 commissioned a new pilot, which would become called Brass Eye (mixing together the titles of two popular current affairs shows, Brass Tacks and Public Eye).

The series satirised media portrayal of social ills, in particular sensationalism, unsubstantiated establishmentarian theory masquerading as fact, and creation of moral panics, and is a sequel to Morris's earlier spoof news programmes On the Hour (1991–92) on radio and The Day Today (1994) on TV.

The series stars Morris's The Day Today colleague Doon Mackichan, along with Gina McKee, Mark Heap, Amelia Bullmore, Simon Pegg, Julia Davis, Claire Skinner, John Guerrasio, Hugh Dennis and Kevin Eldon.

Written by Chris Morris.
Produced by Caroline Leddy & Chris Morris
Directed by Michael Cumming
A Talkback Production for Channel 4.
Brass Eye is available to here: https://bit.ly/2BlgAqH

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3361falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/100-a-bit-of-fry-laurie--32307138
A Bit of Fry & Laurie is a British sketch comedy television series written by and starring former Cambridge Footlights members Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie.

Broadcast on both BBC1 and BBC2 between 1989 and 1995, it ran for four series and totalled 26 episodes, including a 36-minute pilot episode in 1987.

As in The Two Ronnies, elaborate wordplay and innuendo were staples of its material. It frequently broke the fourth wall; characters would revert into their real-life persona mid-sketch, or the camera would often pan off set into the studio.

In addition, the show was punctuated with non sequitur vox pops in a similar style to those of Monty Python's Flying Circus, often making irrelevant statements, heavily based on wordplay.

Laurie was also seen playing piano and a wide variety of other instruments and singing comical numbers.

Written by Stephen Fry & Hugh Laurie.0

Produced by Roger Ordish
Directed by Roger Ordish
A BBC Production.
A Bit Of Fry & Laurie is available to here: https://amzn.to/37HdnNX

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/32307138Mon, 22 Jun 2020 14:00:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - A Bit Of Fry & Laurie (Series 1 Episode 3) A Bit of Fry & Laurie is a British sketch comedy television series written by and starring former Cambridge Footlights members Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie. Broadcast on...
A Bit of Fry & Laurie is a British sketch comedy television series written by and starring former Cambridge Footlights members Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie.

Broadcast on both BBC1 and BBC2 between 1989 and 1995, it ran for four series and totalled 26 episodes, including a 36-minute pilot episode in 1987.

As in The Two Ronnies, elaborate wordplay and innuendo were staples of its material. It frequently broke the fourth wall; characters would revert into their real-life persona mid-sketch, or the camera would often pan off set into the studio.

In addition, the show was punctuated with non sequitur vox pops in a similar style to those of Monty Python's Flying Circus, often making irrelevant statements, heavily based on wordplay.

Laurie was also seen playing piano and a wide variety of other instruments and singing comical numbers.

Written by Stephen Fry & Hugh Laurie.0

Produced by Roger Ordish
Directed by Roger Ordish
A BBC Production.
A Bit Of Fry & Laurie is available to here: https://amzn.to/37HdnNX

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3450falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/99-star-stories--30791412
Star Stories is a British television comedy programme that took a satirical look at celebrities and their lives.

Star Stories is made by Objective Productions (the people behind Peep Show) commissioned for Channel 4 by Shane Allen and Andrew Newman with Lee Hupfield producing, Elliot Hegarty directing and Phil Clarke and Andrew O'Connor as executive producers.

Spanning three series it featured episodes entitled - The Church Of Scientology Presents... Being Tom Cruise: How Scientology Is In No Way Mental, Simon Cowell: My Honesty, My Genius and Oops I Did It Again!: The Ballad Of Britney Jean Spears

Written by Lee Hupfield, Bert Tyler-Moore and George Jeffrie
Produced by Lee Hupfield and Michael Livingstone
Directed by Elliot Hegarty and Ben Palmer
An Objective Production For Channel 4.
Star Stories is available to here: https://bit.ly/2BMZFxh

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/30791412Mon, 15 Jun 2020 14:33:32 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Star Stories (Series 1 Episode 2) Star Stories is a British television comedy programme that took a satirical look at celebrities and their lives. Star Stories is made by Objective Productions (the people behind Peep Show)...
Star Stories is a British television comedy programme that took a satirical look at celebrities and their lives.

Star Stories is made by Objective Productions (the people behind Peep Show) commissioned for Channel 4 by Shane Allen and Andrew Newman with Lee Hupfield producing, Elliot Hegarty directing and Phil Clarke and Andrew O'Connor as executive producers.

Spanning three series it featured episodes entitled - The Church Of Scientology Presents... Being Tom Cruise: How Scientology Is In No Way Mental, Simon Cowell: My Honesty, My Genius and Oops I Did It Again!: The Ballad Of Britney Jean Spears

Written by Lee Hupfield, Bert Tyler-Moore and George Jeffrie
Produced by Lee Hupfield and Michael Livingstone
Directed by Elliot Hegarty and Ben Palmer
An Objective Production For Channel 4.
Star Stories is available to here: https://bit.ly/2BMZFxh

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3364falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/98-uncle--29888768
Uncle follows the darkly comedic misadventures of Andy, an irresponsible man-child forced to watch his neurotic pre-teen nephew, Errol.

With laughs, heart and some original songs, Uncle explores what it means to be family - when you're still learning how to be a good human being.

Written by Oliver Refson and Lilah Vandenburgh
Produced by Alison Macphail
Directed by Oliver Refson
A Baby Cow Production For BBC.
Uncle is available to here: https://bit.ly/3cn9UVM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/29888768Mon, 08 Jun 2020 14:00:05 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Uncle (Series 2 Episode 1) Uncle follows the darkly comedic misadventures of Andy, an irresponsible man-child forced to watch his neurotic pre-teen nephew, Errol. With laughs, heart and some original songs, Uncle explores...
Uncle follows the darkly comedic misadventures of Andy, an irresponsible man-child forced to watch his neurotic pre-teen nephew, Errol.

With laughs, heart and some original songs, Uncle explores what it means to be family - when you're still learning how to be a good human being.

Written by Oliver Refson and Lilah Vandenburgh
Produced by Alison Macphail
Directed by Oliver Refson
A Baby Cow Production For BBC.
Uncle is available to here: https://bit.ly/3cn9UVM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3325truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/97-the-reluctant-landlord--28743431
Much to his annoyance Romesh is left running the local pub after his mischievous father left it to him in his will. He has never wanted to be a landlord, but his mum feels it is the only way to keep his dad's legacy alive, and his wife and kids are having a ball there.

Starring Sian Gibson as his wife, Natasha, and Nick Helm as best mate Lemon, this semi-autobiographical sitcom follows Romesh's misadventures as he tries to offload the pub he doesn't want, while his family use any amount of emotional blackmail to keep him at the heart of the place.

Written by Romesh Ranganathan and Shaun Pye
Produced by Jane Bell
Directed by David Sant
A What Larks!/ Ranga Bee Production For Sky.
The reluctant Landlord is available to buy here: https://bit.ly/2TIoPmO

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/28743431Mon, 01 Jun 2020 14:00:15 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Reluctant Landlord (Series 1 Episode 1) Much to his annoyance Romesh is left running the local pub after his mischievous father left it to him in his will. He has never wanted to be a landlord, but his mum feels it is the...
Much to his annoyance Romesh is left running the local pub after his mischievous father left it to him in his will. He has never wanted to be a landlord, but his mum feels it is the only way to keep his dad's legacy alive, and his wife and kids are having a ball there.

Starring Sian Gibson as his wife, Natasha, and Nick Helm as best mate Lemon, this semi-autobiographical sitcom follows Romesh's misadventures as he tries to offload the pub he doesn't want, while his family use any amount of emotional blackmail to keep him at the heart of the place.

Written by Romesh Ranganathan and Shaun Pye
Produced by Jane Bell
Directed by David Sant
A What Larks!/ Ranga Bee Production For Sky.
The reluctant Landlord is available to buy here: https://bit.ly/2TIoPmO

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3410falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/96-chewing-gum--28274118
In Chewing Gum, Michaela Coel plays Tracey Gordon, a religious Beyoncé-obsessed 22-year-old who is fast finding out that the more she learns about the world, the less she understands.

Tracey and her mates are in their early twenties, living in an estate in Tower Hamlets, east London. Some of them have full time jobs, some are in uni, some are already parents. But really - they are all stuck. Stuck in their youth and still trying to coast through their days with minimum responsibility. Future plans don't extend much beyond saving up for the latest pair of trainers, a new car, or a Cambodian Weave. They live in the moment.

Tracey, however, seems capable of more. But growing up in a strict religious environment means she is 'underdeveloped' in many areas, and so her path into adulthood has been... interesting. She is wise, but innocent, genuflecting equally to both her idols - Beyoncé and Jesus. Living in a swiftly changing London, we watch as she crashes her way through what she should and shouldn't be doing.

Written by Michaela Coel
Produced by Kelly McGolpin, John Pocock and Michaela Coel
Directed by Tom Marshall and Simon Neal
A Retort Production For Channel 4.
Chewing Gum is available to buy here: https://bit.ly/3elCDeZ

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/28274118Mon, 25 May 2020 14:19:48 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Chewing Gum (Series 1 Episode 3) In Chewing Gum, Michaela Coel plays Tracey Gordon, a religious Beyoncé-obsessed 22-year-old who is fast finding out that the more she learns about the world, the less she understands. Tracey...
In Chewing Gum, Michaela Coel plays Tracey Gordon, a religious Beyoncé-obsessed 22-year-old who is fast finding out that the more she learns about the world, the less she understands.

Tracey and her mates are in their early twenties, living in an estate in Tower Hamlets, east London. Some of them have full time jobs, some are in uni, some are already parents. But really - they are all stuck. Stuck in their youth and still trying to coast through their days with minimum responsibility. Future plans don't extend much beyond saving up for the latest pair of trainers, a new car, or a Cambodian Weave. They live in the moment.

Tracey, however, seems capable of more. But growing up in a strict religious environment means she is 'underdeveloped' in many areas, and so her path into adulthood has been... interesting. She is wise, but innocent, genuflecting equally to both her idols - Beyoncé and Jesus. Living in a swiftly changing London, we watch as she crashes her way through what she should and shouldn't be doing.

Written by Michaela Coel
Produced by Kelly McGolpin, John Pocock and Michaela Coel
Directed by Tom Marshall and Simon Neal
A Retort Production For Channel 4.
Chewing Gum is available to buy here: https://bit.ly/3elCDeZ

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3522falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/95-only-fools-horses--27590156
Created and written by John Sullivan, seven series were originally broadcast on BBC One in the United Kingdom from 1981 to 1991, with sixteen sporadic Christmas specials aired until the end of the show in 2003.

Set in Peckham in south-east London, it stars David Jason as ambitious market trader Derek "Del Boy" Trotter, Nicholas Lyndhurst as his younger brother Rodney Trotter, and Lennard Pearce as their elderly Grandad as their sidekick.

Backed by a strong supporting cast, the series follows the Trotters' highs and lows in life, in particular their attempts to get rich.

After Lennard Pearce's death in 1984, the show introduced a new sidekick Uncle Albert, the boys' great uncle played by Buster Merryfield. From 1988 onwards, the show features regular characters in Del Boy and Rodney's love interests, Raquel (Tessa Peake-Jones) and Cassandra (Gwyneth Strong) respectively.

Other recurring characters include haughty car dealer Boycie (John Challis), dim-witted road sweeper Trigger (Roger Lloyd-Pack), lorry driver Denzil (Paul Barber), obnoxious spiv Mickey Pearce (Patrick Murray) and bartender Mike (Kenneth MacDonald).

The show achieved consistently high ratings, and the 1996 episode "Time on Our Hands" (originally billed as the last ever episode) holds the record for the highest UK audience for a sitcom episode, attracting over 24.3 million viewers.

Written by John Sullivan
Produced by Ray Butt and Gareth Gwenlan
Directed by Martin Shardlow, Ray Butt, Susan Belbin, Mandie Fletcher and Tony Dow
A BBC Production.
Only Fools & Horses is available to buy here: https://bit.ly/2T0mhQt

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/27590156Mon, 18 May 2020 14:00:18 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - One Fools & Horses (Series 3 Episode 3) Created and written by John Sullivan, seven series were originally broadcast on BBC One in the United Kingdom from 1981 to 1991, with sixteen sporadic Christmas specials aired until the...
Created and written by John Sullivan, seven series were originally broadcast on BBC One in the United Kingdom from 1981 to 1991, with sixteen sporadic Christmas specials aired until the end of the show in 2003.

Set in Peckham in south-east London, it stars David Jason as ambitious market trader Derek "Del Boy" Trotter, Nicholas Lyndhurst as his younger brother Rodney Trotter, and Lennard Pearce as their elderly Grandad as their sidekick.

Backed by a strong supporting cast, the series follows the Trotters' highs and lows in life, in particular their attempts to get rich.

After Lennard Pearce's death in 1984, the show introduced a new sidekick Uncle Albert, the boys' great uncle played by Buster Merryfield. From 1988 onwards, the show features regular characters in Del Boy and Rodney's love interests, Raquel (Tessa Peake-Jones) and Cassandra (Gwyneth Strong) respectively.

Other recurring characters include haughty car dealer Boycie (John Challis), dim-witted road sweeper Trigger (Roger Lloyd-Pack), lorry driver Denzil (Paul Barber), obnoxious spiv Mickey Pearce (Patrick Murray) and bartender Mike (Kenneth MacDonald).

The show achieved consistently high ratings, and the 1996 episode "Time on Our Hands" (originally billed as the last ever episode) holds the record for the highest UK audience for a sitcom episode, attracting over 24.3 million viewers.

Written by John Sullivan
Produced by Ray Butt and Gareth Gwenlan
Directed by Martin Shardlow, Ray Butt, Susan Belbin, Mandie Fletcher and Tony Dow
A BBC Production.
Only Fools & Horses is available to buy here: https://bit.ly/2T0mhQt

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3469falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/94-the-wilsons-save-the-world--27047190
Michael and Maxine Wilson and their daughters, Lola and Cat have resolved to live a more ethical life.

Millions of people try every day to make 'good' choices and do the 'right thing'. It's hard. Most of us live with hypocrisy and failure all the time but keep on trying. The Wilsons are trying about 20% harder and learning to live with about 19% more failure.

In the last episode in the series Max and Mike attempt to get their heads around the sensitive subject of S.E.X. and technology. Their teenage daughter Cat's latest relationship seems to be mainly conducted through the phone and they fear she doesn't have a clue on the risks attached in sharing intimate images.

However, a full and frank adult conversation seems to be beyond Mike who has hang-ups of his own and Max and Mike's attempt to educate the children on the dangers of pornography on the web leaves Lola simply well-versed in European politics and Cat angry.

Written by Marcus Brigstocke & Sarah Morgan
Produced by Julia McKenzie
A BBC Studios Production.
The Wilsons Save The World is available here: https://amzn.to/2L2eIVb

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/27047190Mon, 11 May 2020 14:00:12 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Wilsons Save The World (Series 1 Episode 4) Michael and Maxine Wilson and their daughters, Lola and Cat have resolved to live a more ethical life. Millions of people try every day to make 'good' choices and do the...
Michael and Maxine Wilson and their daughters, Lola and Cat have resolved to live a more ethical life.

Millions of people try every day to make 'good' choices and do the 'right thing'. It's hard. Most of us live with hypocrisy and failure all the time but keep on trying. The Wilsons are trying about 20% harder and learning to live with about 19% more failure.

In the last episode in the series Max and Mike attempt to get their heads around the sensitive subject of S.E.X. and technology. Their teenage daughter Cat's latest relationship seems to be mainly conducted through the phone and they fear she doesn't have a clue on the risks attached in sharing intimate images.

However, a full and frank adult conversation seems to be beyond Mike who has hang-ups of his own and Max and Mike's attempt to educate the children on the dangers of pornography on the web leaves Lola simply well-versed in European politics and Cat angry.

Written by Marcus Brigstocke & Sarah Morgan
Produced by Julia McKenzie
A BBC Studios Production.
The Wilsons Save The World is available here: https://amzn.to/2L2eIVb

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3420falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/93-the-goes-wrong-show--26584183
The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society undertake another (overly) ambitious endeavour, held back by prolific over-actor Robert Grove, the screen-hogging Sandra Wilkinson and the artistically mistrusted Dennis Tyde.

Six hand-crafted, half hours of theatrical catastrophe include the gripping courtroom drama 'A Trial to Watch' and World War II spy thriller 'The Pilot' (which is not the pilot).

The Goes Wrong Show is simply Mischief's biggest disaster yet.

Written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields
Produced by Jim Poyser
Directed by Martin Dennis
A Mischief / Big Talk North Co-production for BBC.
The Goes Wrong Show is available here: https://bbc.in/35oC5l9

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/26584183Mon, 04 May 2020 14:00:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Goes Wrong Show (Series 1 Episode 6) The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society undertake another (overly) ambitious endeavour, held back by prolific over-actor Robert Grove, the screen-hogging Sandra Wilkinson and the...
The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society undertake another (overly) ambitious endeavour, held back by prolific over-actor Robert Grove, the screen-hogging Sandra Wilkinson and the artistically mistrusted Dennis Tyde.

Six hand-crafted, half hours of theatrical catastrophe include the gripping courtroom drama 'A Trial to Watch' and World War II spy thriller 'The Pilot' (which is not the pilot).

The Goes Wrong Show is simply Mischief's biggest disaster yet.

Written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields
Produced by Jim Poyser
Directed by Martin Dennis
A Mischief / Big Talk North Co-production for BBC.
The Goes Wrong Show is available here: https://bbc.in/35oC5l9

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3396falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/92-frankie-howerd-radio--26188910
Originally made for and broadcast on BBC Radio 2, there isn't a huge amount written about this Frankie Howerd show which seems somewhat confused by it's own identity.

Named in listings and on the BBC website as simply 'Frankie Howerd' but rereferred to in the show as 'Frankie Howerd's Illustrious Memoirs' and even named in some quarters as 'The Frankie Howerd Show' (a throwback to his 1966 radio show), this radio show spanned twenty episodes, divided into three series between 1973 and 1975.

A cross between stand up and a meandering sketch show, it was recorded in front of a studio audience with the assistance of June Whitfield, Ray Fell, Olwyn Griffiths and a four piece band.

In this episode, Frankie is accused of being a spy, gets hypnotised and joins a local literary group.

Written by David McKellar & David Nobbs
Produced by David Hatch
A BBC Production.
Frankie Howerd is available here: https://bbc.in/2VVX0ro

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/26188910Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Frankie Howerd (Series 2 Episode 4) Originally made for and broadcast on BBC Radio 2, there isn't a huge amount written about this Frankie Howerd show which seems somewhat confused by it's own identity. Named in listings...
Originally made for and broadcast on BBC Radio 2, there isn't a huge amount written about this Frankie Howerd show which seems somewhat confused by it's own identity.

Named in listings and on the BBC website as simply 'Frankie Howerd' but rereferred to in the show as 'Frankie Howerd's Illustrious Memoirs' and even named in some quarters as 'The Frankie Howerd Show' (a throwback to his 1966 radio show), this radio show spanned twenty episodes, divided into three series between 1973 and 1975.

A cross between stand up and a meandering sketch show, it was recorded in front of a studio audience with the assistance of June Whitfield, Ray Fell, Olwyn Griffiths and a four piece band.

In this episode, Frankie is accused of being a spy, gets hypnotised and joins a local literary group.

Written by David McKellar & David Nobbs
Produced by David Hatch
A BBC Production.
Frankie Howerd is available here: https://bbc.in/2VVX0ro

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3209falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/91-kate-koji--25750577
Kate, the working-class owner of an old-fashioned seaside café forms an unexpected and sparky friendship with Koji, an African asylum seeker.

Although from very different worlds, they are similar in ways which they do not recognise, including a dogged determination to never back down!

When the fur does start to fly, Kate's resourceful nephew 'Medium' acts as peacemaker.

Written by Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin
Produced by Andy Hamilton, Guy Jenkin and Debbie Pisani
A Hatrick production for the BBC.
Kate & Koji is available here: https://bit.ly/3b7qk4O

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/25750577Mon, 20 Apr 2020 14:00:20 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Kate & Koji (Series 1 Episode 1) Kate, the working-class owner of an old-fashioned seaside café forms an unexpected and sparky friendship with Koji, an African asylum seeker. Although from very different worlds, they are...
Kate, the working-class owner of an old-fashioned seaside café forms an unexpected and sparky friendship with Koji, an African asylum seeker.

Although from very different worlds, they are similar in ways which they do not recognise, including a dogged determination to never back down!

When the fur does start to fly, Kate's resourceful nephew 'Medium' acts as peacemaker.

Written by Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin
Produced by Andy Hamilton, Guy Jenkin and Debbie Pisani
A Hatrick production for the BBC.
Kate & Koji is available here: https://bit.ly/3b7qk4O

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3496falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/90-mark-watson-talks-a-bit-about-life--25362488
Radio 4 series from multi-award winning Mark Watson where he reignites his quest to improve the world.

Previous series have seen Mark and his two deputies eradicate the seven deadly sins, promote virtue throughout the world, and broadcast live to the nation allowing the audience to guide Mark's attempts to make the world a better place.

This latest format will see Mark and two henchmen tackle the bigger, more academic and abstract subjects that affect our everyday life, asking big questions that are crucial to our understanding of ourselves and the crazy world around us.

Themes are examined from every angle, torn apart, laughed at and put back together again to help listeners to understand themselves and the world around them, and to make it a slightly better place using stand-up, poetry, songs and dippy interactions.

Written by Mark Watson, Nicola Dempsey & Rosie Dempsey and Jessica Fostekew
Produced by Lianne Coop
An Impatient production for the BBC.
Mark Watson Talks A Bit About Life is available here: https://bbc.in/2RmlQPC

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/25362488Mon, 13 Apr 2020 14:00:11 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Mark Watson Talks A Bit About Life (Series 3 Episode 4) Radio 4 series from multi-award winning Mark Watson where he reignites his quest to improve the world. Previous series have seen Mark and his two deputies eradicate...
Radio 4 series from multi-award winning Mark Watson where he reignites his quest to improve the world.

Previous series have seen Mark and his two deputies eradicate the seven deadly sins, promote virtue throughout the world, and broadcast live to the nation allowing the audience to guide Mark's attempts to make the world a better place.

This latest format will see Mark and two henchmen tackle the bigger, more academic and abstract subjects that affect our everyday life, asking big questions that are crucial to our understanding of ourselves and the crazy world around us.

Themes are examined from every angle, torn apart, laughed at and put back together again to help listeners to understand themselves and the world around them, and to make it a slightly better place using stand-up, poetry, songs and dippy interactions.

Written by Mark Watson, Nicola Dempsey & Rosie Dempsey and Jessica Fostekew
Produced by Lianne Coop
An Impatient production for the BBC.
Mark Watson Talks A Bit About Life is available here: https://bbc.in/2RmlQPC

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3374falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/89-some-mothers-do-ave-em--24847140
To say that Frank Spencer is a one-man walking disaster area would be somewhat of an understatement.

Although ever enthusiastic and well-intentioned, Frank is entirely feckless.

An accident-prone, underachieving social misfit, he is loved by his wife and no one else; his will to keep going despite it being obvious to everyone else that he is making things worse is not too ingratiating a trait.

Written by Raymond Allen
Directed By Michael Mills & Sidney Lotteryby
Produced by Michael Mills & Sidney Lotteryby
A BBC TV Production
Meet Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em is available here: https://bit.ly/3dTS7qX

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/24847140Mon, 06 Apr 2020 14:00:15 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em (Series 2 Episode 8) To say that Frank Spencer is a one-man walking disaster area would be somewhat of an understatement. Although ever enthusiastic and well-intentioned, Frank is entirely feckless....
To say that Frank Spencer is a one-man walking disaster area would be somewhat of an understatement.

Although ever enthusiastic and well-intentioned, Frank is entirely feckless.

An accident-prone, underachieving social misfit, he is loved by his wife and no one else; his will to keep going despite it being obvious to everyone else that he is making things worse is not too ingratiating a trait.

Written by Raymond Allen
Directed By Michael Mills & Sidney Lotteryby
Produced by Michael Mills & Sidney Lotteryby
A BBC TV Production
Meet Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em is available here: https://bit.ly/3dTS7qX

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3412falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/88-meet-the-richardsons--24635117
A fictional window into the funny and frustrated marriage of Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont.

This comedy series sees stand-up comedians Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont play exaggerated versions of themselves as viewers get a glimpse into their home and work lives, surrounded by their celebrity friends and their Hebden Bridge neighbours.

Meet The Richardsons shows what their neighbours really think of them, the type of birthday party they should have for their daughter Elsie, caravan holidays and Jon's constant refusal to do or go to anything, much to Lucy's annoyance (that part isn't scripted).

Written by Lucy Beaumont & Tim Reid
Directed By Lee Hupfield & Eddie Stafford
Produced by Lee Hupfield & Eddie Stafford
A Second Act production for UKTV
Meet The Richardsosns is available here: https://bit.ly/2vZqv2J

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/24635117Mon, 30 Mar 2020 14:50:05 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Meet The Richardsons (Series 1 Episode 4) A fictional window into the funny and frustrated marriage of Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont. This comedy series sees stand-up comedians Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont play...
A fictional window into the funny and frustrated marriage of Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont.

This comedy series sees stand-up comedians Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont play exaggerated versions of themselves as viewers get a glimpse into their home and work lives, surrounded by their celebrity friends and their Hebden Bridge neighbours.

Meet The Richardsons shows what their neighbours really think of them, the type of birthday party they should have for their daughter Elsie, caravan holidays and Jon's constant refusal to do or go to anything, much to Lucy's annoyance (that part isn't scripted).

Written by Lucy Beaumont & Tim Reid
Directed By Lee Hupfield & Eddie Stafford
Produced by Lee Hupfield & Eddie Stafford
A Second Act production for UKTV
Meet The Richardsosns is available here: https://bit.ly/2vZqv2J

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3202falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/87-sally4ever--24209632
Sally4Ever follows the life of Sally, a soon-to-be promoted marketer who, for 10 years, has lived a comfortable and dull suburban life with David.

But on the night he asks her to marry him, Sally has a crisis and embarks on a wild affair with Emma, a seductive, charismatic, boho actress, singer, musician, poet and author.

Before Sally knows it, Emma has moved in, rearranged the furniture and her life. Is this really what Sally wants, or has she made a mistake?

Written by Julia Davis
Directed By Julia Davis
Produced by Phil Clarke
A Various Artists / Hush Ho production for Sky / HBO.
Sally4Ever is available here: https://amzn.to/3b7Jp6q

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/24209632Mon, 23 Mar 2020 15:00:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Sally4Ever (Series 1 Episode 1) Sally4Ever follows the life of Sally, a soon-to-be promoted marketer who, for 10 years, has lived a comfortable and dull suburban life with David. But on the night he asks her to marry him,...
Sally4Ever follows the life of Sally, a soon-to-be promoted marketer who, for 10 years, has lived a comfortable and dull suburban life with David.

But on the night he asks her to marry him, Sally has a crisis and embarks on a wild affair with Emma, a seductive, charismatic, boho actress, singer, musician, poet and author.

Before Sally knows it, Emma has moved in, rearranged the furniture and her life. Is this really what Sally wants, or has she made a mistake?

Written by Julia Davis
Directed By Julia Davis
Produced by Phil Clarke
A Various Artists / Hush Ho production for Sky / HBO.
Sally4Ever is available here: https://amzn.to/3b7Jp6q

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3477falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/86-the-trip--23930559
Improvised food-based travel tours with Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon. The stories are fictional but based around their real personas.

When Steve is commissioned by the food supplement of a Sunday newspaper to review half a dozen restaurants, he decides to mix work with pleasure and plans a trip around the north with his food-loving American girlfriend. But when she decides to leave him and return to the States, Steve is faced with a week of meals for one; not quite the trip he had in mind.

Having exhausted all other options, he reluctantly calls Rob, the only person left he can think of who might be available. Never one to turn down a free lunch (let alone six), Rob agrees and together they set off for a culinary adventure.

Over the course of six meals at six different restaurants in and around the Lake District, Lancashire and the Yorkshire Dales, the ultimate odd couple find themselves debating the big questions of life, such as how did I get to be here and where do I go next, over a series of culinary delights.

Written by Steve Coogan & Rob Brydon
Directed By Michael Winterbottom
Produced by Andrew Eaton, Melissa Parmenter, Stefano Negri and Josh Hyams
A Revolution Films / Baby Cow / Arbie / Small Man production for BBC / Sky.
The Trip is available here: https://bbc.in/397CQAg

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23930559Mon, 16 Mar 2020 15:00:18 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Trip (Series 1 Episode 1) Improvised food-based travel tours with Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon. The stories are fictional but based around their real personas. When Steve is commissioned by the food supplement of a...
Improvised food-based travel tours with Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon. The stories are fictional but based around their real personas.

When Steve is commissioned by the food supplement of a Sunday newspaper to review half a dozen restaurants, he decides to mix work with pleasure and plans a trip around the north with his food-loving American girlfriend. But when she decides to leave him and return to the States, Steve is faced with a week of meals for one; not quite the trip he had in mind.

Having exhausted all other options, he reluctantly calls Rob, the only person left he can think of who might be available. Never one to turn down a free lunch (let alone six), Rob agrees and together they set off for a culinary adventure.

Over the course of six meals at six different restaurants in and around the Lake District, Lancashire and the Yorkshire Dales, the ultimate odd couple find themselves debating the big questions of life, such as how did I get to be here and where do I go next, over a series of culinary delights.

Written by Steve Coogan & Rob Brydon
Directed By Michael Winterbottom
Produced by Andrew Eaton, Melissa Parmenter, Stefano Negri and Josh Hyams
A Revolution Films / Baby Cow / Arbie / Small Man production for BBC / Sky.
The Trip is available here: https://bbc.in/397CQAg

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3577falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/85-king-gary--23641037
'King Gary follows childhood sweethearts Gary and Terri King, a loved up husband and wife, and their aspirations to achieve social acceptance and moderate material success in competitive suburbia.

This, accompanied by drama queen Gary's constant need to impress his prehistoric old school Dad, Big Gary, and attempt to fill his big boots, equals a massive 'try hard' douchebag.

King Gary is a study of how the small things in life can be blown up to absurd proportions as the pressures of the modern world, and how we think we must exist within it, spiral out of control.

A big comedy about life's small and often petty dramas.

Written by Tom Davis and James De Frond
Directed By James De Frond
Produced by Rupert Majendie
A Shiny Button Production for the BBC.
King Gary is available here: https://bbc.in/397CQAg

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23641037Mon, 09 Mar 2020 15:00:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - King Gary (Series 1 Episode 1) 'King Gary follows childhood sweethearts Gary and Terri King, a loved up husband and wife, and their aspirations to achieve social acceptance and moderate material success in competitive...
'King Gary follows childhood sweethearts Gary and Terri King, a loved up husband and wife, and their aspirations to achieve social acceptance and moderate material success in competitive suburbia.

This, accompanied by drama queen Gary's constant need to impress his prehistoric old school Dad, Big Gary, and attempt to fill his big boots, equals a massive 'try hard' douchebag.

King Gary is a study of how the small things in life can be blown up to absurd proportions as the pressures of the modern world, and how we think we must exist within it, spiral out of control.

A big comedy about life's small and often petty dramas.

Written by Tom Davis and James De Frond
Directed By James De Frond
Produced by Rupert Majendie
A Shiny Button Production for the BBC.
King Gary is available here: https://bbc.in/397CQAg

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3461falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/84-lead-balloon--23392822
Rick Spleen is a successful but disillusioned stand-up comedian. He spends his days hosting corporate events such as The Heating and Ventilation Awards, arguing with his co-writer Marty and trying to hide his incompetence from Mel, his partner.

Rick is a habitual liar, but as he is not a very good one it is a trait which more often than not lands him in a deep hole... which he invariably then digs himself into even deeper when he piles more flimsy lies on top of the previous ones.

Being out of pocket is something that particularly riles Rick, but with his laid-back daughter Sam and her equally lazy boyfriend Ben always coming up with excuses for needing money, his wallet is rarely full.

Ironically it is Rick's tightfistedness that causes him the biggest financial losses though; eventually he always ends up paying for the damage his lies have caused.

Written by Jack Dee & Pete Sinclair
Directed By Alex Hardcastle
Produced by Alex Hardcastle
An Open Mike Production for the BBC.
Lead Balloon is available here: https://bit.ly/32sj3ZH

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23392822Mon, 02 Mar 2020 14:57:28 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Lead Balloon (Series 2 Episode 3) Rick Spleen is a successful but disillusioned stand-up comedian. He spends his days hosting corporate events such as The Heating and Ventilation Awards, arguing with his co-writer Marty and...
Rick Spleen is a successful but disillusioned stand-up comedian. He spends his days hosting corporate events such as The Heating and Ventilation Awards, arguing with his co-writer Marty and trying to hide his incompetence from Mel, his partner.

Rick is a habitual liar, but as he is not a very good one it is a trait which more often than not lands him in a deep hole... which he invariably then digs himself into even deeper when he piles more flimsy lies on top of the previous ones.

Being out of pocket is something that particularly riles Rick, but with his laid-back daughter Sam and her equally lazy boyfriend Ben always coming up with excuses for needing money, his wallet is rarely full.

Ironically it is Rick's tightfistedness that causes him the biggest financial losses though; eventually he always ends up paying for the damage his lies have caused.

Written by Jack Dee & Pete Sinclair
Directed By Alex Hardcastle
Produced by Alex Hardcastle
An Open Mike Production for the BBC.
Lead Balloon is available here: https://bit.ly/32sj3ZH

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3897falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/83-old-harry-s-game--23146522
Life is not easy. Spending eternity in a place filled with fire and brimstone while the bottom half of you has been turned into a goat is even worse, but that is what Satan has to put up with.

Satan is somewhat world-weary (or rather underworld-weary), and spends most of his time torturing Thomas Quentin Crimp, the evilest human in the world, ignoring his sycophantic and grotesque assistant Scumspawn, and trying to argue with the Professor, a kind human who was sent to Hell because he was an atheist.

Written by Andy Hamilton
Directed By Michael Lennox
Produced by Paul Mayhew-Archer
A BBC Production.
Old Harry's Game is available here: https://amzn.to/2wxbgxR

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23146522Mon, 24 Feb 2020 19:43:28 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Old Harry's Game (Series 1 Episode 1) Life is not easy. Spending eternity in a place filled with fire and brimstone while the bottom half of you has been turned into a goat is even worse, but that is what Satan has to put up...
Life is not easy. Spending eternity in a place filled with fire and brimstone while the bottom half of you has been turned into a goat is even worse, but that is what Satan has to put up with.

Satan is somewhat world-weary (or rather underworld-weary), and spends most of his time torturing Thomas Quentin Crimp, the evilest human in the world, ignoring his sycophantic and grotesque assistant Scumspawn, and trying to argue with the Professor, a kind human who was sent to Hell because he was an atheist.

Written by Andy Hamilton
Directed By Michael Lennox
Produced by Paul Mayhew-Archer
A BBC Production.
Old Harry's Game is available here: https://amzn.to/2wxbgxR

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3447falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/82-derry-girls--22875484
It's 1994 - a time when nobody can seem to agree on anything, except how much they all enjoy using an acronym (The IRA, The UDA, The RUC). Armed police in armoured Land Rovers, British Army check points and "peace" walls are all an everyday reality for 16-year old Erin and her friends.

Erin lives with her uncompromising mother, her long-suffering father and the fearsome 'Granda Joe', a man whose love for his daughters and granddaughters is surpassed only by his contempt for his son-in-law.

Erin is used to seeing her country on the nightly news. This is a time of armed police in armoured Land Rovers and British Army check points. But it's also the time of Murder She Wrote, The Cranberries, MJ and Lisa Marie, Doc Martens, bomber jackets, The X Files, Nirvana and Wayne's World. And while The Troubles may hang over her home town, Erin has troubles of her own...

Terrible with boys and convinced nobody understands her, Erin would love to be a rebel, and sometimes flirts with the idea of standing up to those in authority, like her Principal - the eternally unimpressed Sister Michael, or divorcing her parents, à la Macaulay Culkin, but she never quite has the nerve. She has grand ambitions to become a famous writer and thinks of herself as thoroughly liberal and worldly, yet she's never ventured further than Buncrana...

Written by Lisa McGee
Directed By Michael Lennox
Produced by Catherine Gosling Fuller and Sam Pinnell
A Ha Trick Production for Channel 4.
Derry Girls is available here: https://bit.ly/37crlpl

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22875484Mon, 17 Feb 2020 15:00:12 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Derry Girls (Series 1 Episode 1) It's 1994 - a time when nobody can seem to agree on anything, except how much they all enjoy using an acronym (The IRA, The UDA, The RUC). Armed police in armoured Land Rovers, British Army...
It's 1994 - a time when nobody can seem to agree on anything, except how much they all enjoy using an acronym (The IRA, The UDA, The RUC). Armed police in armoured Land Rovers, British Army check points and "peace" walls are all an everyday reality for 16-year old Erin and her friends.

Erin lives with her uncompromising mother, her long-suffering father and the fearsome 'Granda Joe', a man whose love for his daughters and granddaughters is surpassed only by his contempt for his son-in-law.

Erin is used to seeing her country on the nightly news. This is a time of armed police in armoured Land Rovers and British Army check points. But it's also the time of Murder She Wrote, The Cranberries, MJ and Lisa Marie, Doc Martens, bomber jackets, The X Files, Nirvana and Wayne's World. And while The Troubles may hang over her home town, Erin has troubles of her own...

Terrible with boys and convinced nobody understands her, Erin would love to be a rebel, and sometimes flirts with the idea of standing up to those in authority, like her Principal - the eternally unimpressed Sister Michael, or divorcing her parents, à la Macaulay Culkin, but she never quite has the nerve. She has grand ambitions to become a famous writer and thinks of herself as thoroughly liberal and worldly, yet she's never ventured further than Buncrana...

Written by Lisa McGee
Directed By Michael Lennox
Produced by Catherine Gosling Fuller and Sam Pinnell
A Ha Trick Production for Channel 4.
Derry Girls is available here: https://bit.ly/37crlpl

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3533falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/81-fags-mags-bags--22592864
Sitcom written by and starring Sanjeev Kohli and Donald Mcleary, set in a Scots-Asian corner shop near Glasgow.

Join the staff of Fags, Mags and Bags in their tireless quest to bring nice-price custard creams and cans of coke with Arabic writing on them to an ungrateful nation. Ramesh Mahju has built it up over the course of over 30 years and is a firmly entrenched, friendly presence in the local area.

Ramesh loves the art of the 'shop'. However; he does apply the 'low return' rules of the shop to all other aspects of his life. Ramesh is ably assisted by his shop sidekick Dave, a forty-something underachiever who shares Ramesh's love of the art of shopkeeping, even if he is treated like a slave.

Then there are Ramesh's sons Sanjay and Alok, both surly and not particularly keen on the old school approach to shopkeeping, but natural successors to the business. Ramesh is keen to pass all his worldly wisdom onto them - whether they like it or not!

Written by Sanjeev Kohli & Donald McLeary
Produced by Gus Beattie
Comedy Unit Production for BBC Radio 4.
Fags, Mags & Bags is available here: https://bbc.in/2Spu3m9

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22592864Mon, 10 Feb 2020 15:00:21 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Fags, Mags & Bags (Series 8 Episode 4) Sitcom written by and starring Sanjeev Kohli and Donald Mcleary, set in a Scots-Asian corner shop near Glasgow. Join the staff of Fags, Mags and Bags in their tireless quest to bring...
Sitcom written by and starring Sanjeev Kohli and Donald Mcleary, set in a Scots-Asian corner shop near Glasgow.

Join the staff of Fags, Mags and Bags in their tireless quest to bring nice-price custard creams and cans of coke with Arabic writing on them to an ungrateful nation. Ramesh Mahju has built it up over the course of over 30 years and is a firmly entrenched, friendly presence in the local area.

Ramesh loves the art of the 'shop'. However; he does apply the 'low return' rules of the shop to all other aspects of his life. Ramesh is ably assisted by his shop sidekick Dave, a forty-something underachiever who shares Ramesh's love of the art of shopkeeping, even if he is treated like a slave.

Then there are Ramesh's sons Sanjay and Alok, both surly and not particularly keen on the old school approach to shopkeeping, but natural successors to the business. Ramesh is keen to pass all his worldly wisdom onto them - whether they like it or not!

Written by Sanjeev Kohli & Donald McLeary
Produced by Gus Beattie
Comedy Unit Production for BBC Radio 4.
Fags, Mags & Bags is available here: https://bbc.in/2Spu3m9

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3304falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/80-peep-show--22342903
A sitcom about Mark and Jeremy (Jez), two socially dysfunctional men. Despite having nothing in common they share a South London flat.

Wannabe 'musician' Jeremy is a lazy man with big ideas, mostly about himself. Meanwhile Mark is an astonishingly tragic obsessive loser with a no-pain, no-gain view of the world.

Their deepest, darkest thoughts and feelings are revealed as they try to find their place in the modern world and endeavour to find love and fulfilment.

Created By Andrew O'Connor, Jesse Armstrong and Sam Bain
Written by Simon Blackwell
Produced by Izzy Mant
Directed by Becky Martin
An Objective Poduction.
Peep Show is available here: https://bit.ly/37I6ETb

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22342903Mon, 03 Feb 2020 15:07:23 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Peep Show (Series 5 Episode 4) A sitcom about Mark and Jeremy (Jez), two socially dysfunctional men. Despite having nothing in common they share a South London flat. Wannabe 'musician' Jeremy is a lazy man with big ideas,...
A sitcom about Mark and Jeremy (Jez), two socially dysfunctional men. Despite having nothing in common they share a South London flat.

Wannabe 'musician' Jeremy is a lazy man with big ideas, mostly about himself. Meanwhile Mark is an astonishingly tragic obsessive loser with a no-pain, no-gain view of the world.

Their deepest, darkest thoughts and feelings are revealed as they try to find their place in the modern world and endeavour to find love and fulfilment.

Created By Andrew O'Connor, Jesse Armstrong and Sam Bain
Written by Simon Blackwell
Produced by Izzy Mant
Directed by Becky Martin
An Objective Poduction.
Peep Show is available here: https://bit.ly/37I6ETb

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3481falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/79-flight-of-the-conchords--22082861
Flight of the Conchords are a New Zealand comedy duo composed of musicians Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement.

The duo's comedy and music became the basis of a BBC radio series and then an American television series that aired for two seasons on HBO.

They previously referred to themselves as "New Zealand's fourth most popular guitar-based digi-bongo acapella-rap-funk-comedy folk duo", but as of 2014 refer to themselves as "the almost award-winning fourth-most-popular folk duo in New Zealand".

The series revolves around a fictional version of the pair as they try to achieve success as a band in New York City and try to develop an American fan base.

The regular cast includes fellow comedians Rhys Darby as Murray, Arj Barker as Dave, and Kristen Schaal as their obsessed fan Mel as well as many other comedians in guest starring roles.

Created By James Bobin, Jemaine Clement & Bret McKenzie
Written by Eric Kaplan
Produced by Anna Dokoza & Christo Morse
Directed by James Bobin
An HBO Production.
Flight Of The Conchords is available here: https://bit.ly/38eFPpE

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22082861Mon, 27 Jan 2020 15:04:49 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Flight Of The Conchords (Series 1 Episode 8) Flight of the Conchords are a New Zealand comedy duo composed of musicians Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement. The duo's comedy and music became the basis of a BBC radio...
Flight of the Conchords are a New Zealand comedy duo composed of musicians Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement.

The duo's comedy and music became the basis of a BBC radio series and then an American television series that aired for two seasons on HBO.

They previously referred to themselves as "New Zealand's fourth most popular guitar-based digi-bongo acapella-rap-funk-comedy folk duo", but as of 2014 refer to themselves as "the almost award-winning fourth-most-popular folk duo in New Zealand".

The series revolves around a fictional version of the pair as they try to achieve success as a band in New York City and try to develop an American fan base.

The regular cast includes fellow comedians Rhys Darby as Murray, Arj Barker as Dave, and Kristen Schaal as their obsessed fan Mel as well as many other comedians in guest starring roles.

Created By James Bobin, Jemaine Clement & Bret McKenzie
Written by Eric Kaplan
Produced by Anna Dokoza & Christo Morse
Directed by James Bobin
An HBO Production.
Flight Of The Conchords is available here: https://bit.ly/38eFPpE

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3311falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/78-olga-koch-fight--21855791
In 2014, Olga Koch’s father got stopped by authorities on the Russian border, which resulted in the most surreal year of her family’s life.

Olga takes the listener behind the iron curtain, giving us an insight into what it was like to grow up in the newly-formed Russian Federation, how Putin's Russia came about, and why her family now live in exile in Munich.

Based on Olga's hit Edinburgh Award-nominated show, Fight is the battle cry for a generation that takes freedom for granted, inspired by a generation that grew up without it.

Written and performed by Olga Koch
Co-written by Charlie Dinki
Produced and edited by Matt Stronge
A BBC Studios Production.
Fight is available here: https://bbc.in/2tcrNWN

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/21855791Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:25:27 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Olga Koch (Fight) In 2014, Olga Koch’s father got stopped by authorities on the Russian border, which resulted in the most surreal year of her family’s life. Olga takes the listener behind the iron curtain, giving us an...
In 2014, Olga Koch’s father got stopped by authorities on the Russian border, which resulted in the most surreal year of her family’s life.

Olga takes the listener behind the iron curtain, giving us an insight into what it was like to grow up in the newly-formed Russian Federation, how Putin's Russia came about, and why her family now live in exile in Munich.

Based on Olga's hit Edinburgh Award-nominated show, Fight is the battle cry for a generation that takes freedom for granted, inspired by a generation that grew up without it.

Written and performed by Olga Koch
Co-written by Charlie Dinki
Produced and edited by Matt Stronge
A BBC Studios Production.
Fight is available here: https://bbc.in/2tcrNWN

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3603falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/77-pete-versus-life--21602718
Rafe Spall stars as twenty-something Pete, a struggling sports writer.

Although well meaning, Pete often lacks the emotional maturity required to deal with life's more intricate problems.

Pete wishes that life had clearly defined rules... like sport does. But life isn't like sport, as Pete is only beginning to realise.

The unusual twist with this sitcom is that Pete's life is commented on as if it was an exciting sporting event, by two professional sport commentators - anchor man Colin King and former international footballer Terry McIlroy.

Colin and Terry discuss and analyse Pete's domestic cock-ups with accompanying statistics, on screen graphics and slow motion replays.

Written by Bert Tyler-Moore and George Jeffrie
Directed by Becky Martin
Produced by Phil Clarke
An Objective Production.
Pete Versus Life is available here: https://bit.ly/2QvDz7s

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/21602718Mon, 13 Jan 2020 15:03:49 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Pete Versus Life (Series 1 Episode 1) Rafe Spall stars as twenty-something Pete, a struggling sports writer. Although well meaning, Pete often lacks the emotional maturity required to deal with life's more intricate...
Rafe Spall stars as twenty-something Pete, a struggling sports writer.

Although well meaning, Pete often lacks the emotional maturity required to deal with life's more intricate problems.

Pete wishes that life had clearly defined rules... like sport does. But life isn't like sport, as Pete is only beginning to realise.

The unusual twist with this sitcom is that Pete's life is commented on as if it was an exciting sporting event, by two professional sport commentators - anchor man Colin King and former international footballer Terry McIlroy.

Colin and Terry discuss and analyse Pete's domestic cock-ups with accompanying statistics, on screen graphics and slow motion replays.

Written by Bert Tyler-Moore and George Jeffrie
Directed by Becky Martin
Produced by Phil Clarke
An Objective Production.
Pete Versus Life is available here: https://bit.ly/2QvDz7s

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3442falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/76-extras--21386191
Andy Millman gives up his day job to become an actor but finds that the lead roles elude him, so he instead has to settle for work as an 'extra' (background actor). During his time on set Millman has to work with stars such as Kate Winslet, Samuel L. Jackson and Ben Stiller.

By the second series, Andy Millman begins filming his sitcom (When The Whistle Blows) and moves from background artist to TV face.

Despite his burgeoning success, Andy is still surrounded by the usual cast of idiots: his hapless best friend Maggie, his incompetent agent Darren Lamb and "Barry Off EastEnders".

Before long Andy realises fame isn't quite as great as it looks.

The final special sees Andy Millman as a big star with a new, more efficient agent and a new house overlooking Hampstead Heath.

Meanwhile, Maggie has been forced to move into an even smaller flat and is doing cleaning jobs to make ends meet. Sadly, Andy hasn't even noticed.

Written by Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant
Directed by Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant
Produced by Charlie Hanson
A BBC / HBO Production.
Extras is available here: https://bbc.in/34wbY9Y

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/21386191Mon, 06 Jan 2020 16:05:21 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Extras (Series 2 Episode 2) Andy Millman gives up his day job to become an actor but finds that the lead roles elude him, so he instead has to settle for work as an 'extra' (background actor). During his time on set Millman...
Andy Millman gives up his day job to become an actor but finds that the lead roles elude him, so he instead has to settle for work as an 'extra' (background actor). During his time on set Millman has to work with stars such as Kate Winslet, Samuel L. Jackson and Ben Stiller.

By the second series, Andy Millman begins filming his sitcom (When The Whistle Blows) and moves from background artist to TV face.

Despite his burgeoning success, Andy is still surrounded by the usual cast of idiots: his hapless best friend Maggie, his incompetent agent Darren Lamb and "Barry Off EastEnders".

Before long Andy realises fame isn't quite as great as it looks.

The final special sees Andy Millman as a big star with a new, more efficient agent and a new house overlooking Hampstead Heath.

Meanwhile, Maggie has been forced to move into an even smaller flat and is doing cleaning jobs to make ends meet. Sadly, Andy hasn't even noticed.

Written by Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant
Directed by Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant
Produced by Charlie Hanson
A BBC / HBO Production.
Extras is available here: https://bbc.in/34wbY9Y

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3620falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/75-plebs--20762458
A thoroughly modern comedy in an ancient setting.

Rome is traditionally imagined as the home of emperors and senators, generals and gladiators, a dignified theatre of pomp and ceremony. But what about the little guys, the wasters - new to the big city, stuck in office jobs, unable to get the girls?

Plebs follows three desperate young men from the suburbs as they try to get laid, hold down jobs and climb the social ladder in the big city - a city that happens to be Ancient Rome.

The show focuses on Marcus, his slave with an attitude problem, Grumio, and their flatmate: Stylax, and later Jason. There's also Marcus's ruthless boss, Flavia - an expert manipulator with a private life that's the stuff of legend. Unlikely to be immortalised in the annals or memorialised in a frieze, Marcus, Jason, Stylax and Grumio are essentially just a bunch of Plebs.

And whether they're wearing togas, or skinny jeans, desperate young men in any period of history are essentially cut from the same cloth…

Written by Sam Leifer and Tom Basden,
Directed by Sam Leifer
Produced by Teddy Leifer
A Rise Films Production for ITV.
Plebs is available here: http://tiny.cc/ph5khz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20762458Mon, 30 Dec 2019 19:22:21 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Plebs (Series 3 Episode 8) A thoroughly modern comedy in an ancient setting. Rome is traditionally imagined as the home of emperors and senators, generals and gladiators, a dignified theatre of pomp and ceremony. But what...
A thoroughly modern comedy in an ancient setting.

Rome is traditionally imagined as the home of emperors and senators, generals and gladiators, a dignified theatre of pomp and ceremony. But what about the little guys, the wasters - new to the big city, stuck in office jobs, unable to get the girls?

Plebs follows three desperate young men from the suburbs as they try to get laid, hold down jobs and climb the social ladder in the big city - a city that happens to be Ancient Rome.

The show focuses on Marcus, his slave with an attitude problem, Grumio, and their flatmate: Stylax, and later Jason. There's also Marcus's ruthless boss, Flavia - an expert manipulator with a private life that's the stuff of legend. Unlikely to be immortalised in the annals or memorialised in a frieze, Marcus, Jason, Stylax and Grumio are essentially just a bunch of Plebs.

And whether they're wearing togas, or skinny jeans, desperate young men in any period of history are essentially cut from the same cloth…

Written by Sam Leifer and Tom Basden,
Directed by Sam Leifer
Produced by Teddy Leifer
A Rise Films Production for ITV.
Plebs is available here: http://tiny.cc/ph5khz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3234falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/74-porridge--20636902
Set in Slade Prison, Porridge documents the life of Norman Stanley Fletcher, an habitual criminal.

Fletcher is a smart, witty, cunning and loveable character.
He shares his cell with young Lennie Godber, a first time inmate upon whom he imparts his considerable wisdom and knowledge of the penal system and how to cope.

The pair must contend with troublesome fellow cons, harsh wardens, unwitting mishaps and the regular stresses of prison life, keeping their heads above water without getting on the wrong side of their jailers.

Fletch's wing is headed by the strict Scottish screw Mr Mackay, assisted by the far more easy-going - and somewhat exploitable - Mr Barrowclough.

In this Christmas special first broadcast on Christmas Eve 1976, Fletcher and Godber are hauled in front of the governor after being caught with illicit Christmas booze and become embroiled in Urwin's escape bid as he holds Mr Barrowclough and the governor's secretary hostage.

Written by Dick Clement & Ian La Frenais
Produced by Sydney Lotterby
A BBC Production.
Porridge is available here: http://tiny.cc/54j7gz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20636902Mon, 23 Dec 2019 15:07:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Porridge (Series 2 Christmas Special) Set in Slade Prison, Porridge documents the life of Norman Stanley Fletcher, an habitual criminal. Fletcher is a smart, witty, cunning and loveable character. He shares his cell with...
Set in Slade Prison, Porridge documents the life of Norman Stanley Fletcher, an habitual criminal.

Fletcher is a smart, witty, cunning and loveable character.
He shares his cell with young Lennie Godber, a first time inmate upon whom he imparts his considerable wisdom and knowledge of the penal system and how to cope.

The pair must contend with troublesome fellow cons, harsh wardens, unwitting mishaps and the regular stresses of prison life, keeping their heads above water without getting on the wrong side of their jailers.

Fletch's wing is headed by the strict Scottish screw Mr Mackay, assisted by the far more easy-going - and somewhat exploitable - Mr Barrowclough.

In this Christmas special first broadcast on Christmas Eve 1976, Fletcher and Godber are hauled in front of the governor after being caught with illicit Christmas booze and become embroiled in Urwin's escape bid as he holds Mr Barrowclough and the governor's secretary hostage.

Written by Dick Clement & Ian La Frenais
Produced by Sydney Lotterby
A BBC Production.
Porridge is available here: http://tiny.cc/54j7gz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3580falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/73-the-cockfields--20575303
Sitcom focusing on a man who takes his girlfriend to meet his family at their home on the Isle of Wight for the very first time.

There they'll spend a long weekend as guests of his ever-doting mother Sue and controlling stepdad Ray.

Simon has been persuaded to mark the occasion of his 40th birthday back at the Cockfield family home and there's a fair amount of Isle of Wight "fun" in store for the couple, alongside interruptions from Simon's celebrity obsessed stepbrother David and the Cockfields' oddball handyman neighbour Andre.

If that wasn't enough, Simon's father Larry and his new American girlfriend Melissa are causing tensions to rise.

Can Simon survive a long (very long) birthday weekend with his biological and extended family without losing his cool, or his girlfriend?

Written by David Earl and Joe Wilkinson
Produced by John Rushton
Directed by Steve Bendelack
A UKTV Original by Yellow Door Productions.
The Cockfields is available on Sky Go

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20575303Mon, 16 Dec 2019 15:03:15 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Cockfields (Series 1 Episode 1) Sitcom focusing on a man who takes his girlfriend to meet his family at their home on the Isle of Wight for the very first time. There they'll spend a long weekend as guests of his...
Sitcom focusing on a man who takes his girlfriend to meet his family at their home on the Isle of Wight for the very first time.

There they'll spend a long weekend as guests of his ever-doting mother Sue and controlling stepdad Ray.

Simon has been persuaded to mark the occasion of his 40th birthday back at the Cockfield family home and there's a fair amount of Isle of Wight "fun" in store for the couple, alongside interruptions from Simon's celebrity obsessed stepbrother David and the Cockfields' oddball handyman neighbour Andre.

If that wasn't enough, Simon's father Larry and his new American girlfriend Melissa are causing tensions to rise.

Can Simon survive a long (very long) birthday weekend with his biological and extended family without losing his cool, or his girlfriend?

Written by David Earl and Joe Wilkinson
Produced by John Rushton
Directed by Steve Bendelack
A UKTV Original by Yellow Door Productions.
The Cockfields is available on Sky Go

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3223falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/72-i-m-sorry-i-haven-t-a-clue--20662448
This show started out as a spin-off from the BBC radio series I'm Sorry I'll Read That Again. The idea being that I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue was an unscripted version of the original.

ISIHAC is a parody of the traditional panel show, with games designed to humiliate and confuse. Points come for show's lovely (and fictitious) scorer Samantha.

Games include the self-explanatory "One Song to the Tune of Another"; mad word game "Cheddar Gorge"; "Sound Charades" (a game based on the TV show Give Us a Clue which differs in just three ways); "Word for Word", the opposite of word association; and the game based on the London Underground that is almost impossible to play - "Mornington Crescent".

Legendary host Humphrey Lyttelton presided over the first 50 series. In the series that followed the host's death the role of chairman was handed over to Stephen Fry, Jack Dee and Rob Brydon. The trio took it in turns to present the show. Jack Dee's episodes were generally the best received by the audience, and thus Dee has been installed as the new host.

The most regular players of the game are Barry Cryer, Graeme Garden, Tim Brooke-Taylor and the late Willie Rushton.

Written by Iain Pattinson & Fraser Steele (Additional Material)
Produced by John Naismith
A BBC Production.
I'm Sorry I Haven’t A Clue is available here: http://tiny.cc/mqm0gz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20662448Wed, 11 Dec 2019 19:14:39 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue (Series 72 Episode 3) This show started out as a spin-off from the BBC radio series I'm Sorry I'll Read That Again. The idea being that I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue was an unscripted version of the...
This show started out as a spin-off from the BBC radio series I'm Sorry I'll Read That Again. The idea being that I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue was an unscripted version of the original.

ISIHAC is a parody of the traditional panel show, with games designed to humiliate and confuse. Points come for show's lovely (and fictitious) scorer Samantha.

Games include the self-explanatory "One Song to the Tune of Another"; mad word game "Cheddar Gorge"; "Sound Charades" (a game based on the TV show Give Us a Clue which differs in just three ways); "Word for Word", the opposite of word association; and the game based on the London Underground that is almost impossible to play - "Mornington Crescent".

Legendary host Humphrey Lyttelton presided over the first 50 series. In the series that followed the host's death the role of chairman was handed over to Stephen Fry, Jack Dee and Rob Brydon. The trio took it in turns to present the show. Jack Dee's episodes were generally the best received by the audience, and thus Dee has been installed as the new host.

The most regular players of the game are Barry Cryer, Graeme Garden, Tim Brooke-Taylor and the late Willie Rushton.

Written by Iain Pattinson & Fraser Steele (Additional Material)
Produced by John Naismith
A BBC Production.
I'm Sorry I Haven’t A Clue is available here: http://tiny.cc/mqm0gz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3494falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/71-the-young-offenders--20422979
The Young Offenders follows the coming of age adventures of lovable rogues Conor and Jock as they navigate their awkward teenage years, hatching plans and adventures to help distract from their tough home lives and their inability to stay out of trouble at school.

The show is based on the 2016 film of the same name, with Alex Murphy and Chris Walley reprising their roles.

Conor's long suffering mother Mairead tries to keep both her son and his best friend on the straight and narrow, with varying degrees of success.

Friendship, loyalty, laughter and lots of mischief bring best pals Conor and Jock into conflict with their headmaster, leaving Conor's mum to pick up the pieces.
To add fuel to the fire, the lads strike up friendships with their headmaster's daughters.

Written by Peter Foott
Produced by Martina Niland and Tim Whitby
Directed by Peter Foott & Tom Marshall
A Vico Films Production for BBC in association with RTE.
The Young Offenders is available here: http://tiny.cc/eyl0gz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20422979Mon, 02 Dec 2019 17:01:25 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Young Offenders (Series 1 Episode 1) The Young Offenders follows the coming of age adventures of lovable rogues Conor and Jock as they navigate their awkward teenage years, hatching plans and adventures to help distract...
The Young Offenders follows the coming of age adventures of lovable rogues Conor and Jock as they navigate their awkward teenage years, hatching plans and adventures to help distract from their tough home lives and their inability to stay out of trouble at school.

The show is based on the 2016 film of the same name, with Alex Murphy and Chris Walley reprising their roles.

Conor's long suffering mother Mairead tries to keep both her son and his best friend on the straight and narrow, with varying degrees of success.

Friendship, loyalty, laughter and lots of mischief bring best pals Conor and Jock into conflict with their headmaster, leaving Conor's mum to pick up the pieces.
To add fuel to the fire, the lads strike up friendships with their headmaster's daughters.

Written by Peter Foott
Produced by Martina Niland and Tim Whitby
Directed by Peter Foott & Tom Marshall
A Vico Films Production for BBC in association with RTE.
The Young Offenders is available here: http://tiny.cc/eyl0gz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.
Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.
Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3275falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/70-ed-reardon-s-week--20260664
This sitcom follows the life of Ed Reardon, a curmudgeonly writer who has only managed to have one novel published since the 60s.

Despite his distinct lack of success, Ed remains bullishly optimistic about his future. Yes, he may only have a single pair of trousers and have one of the lowest sales ranks on Amazon, but no writer knows more about stealing stationery from their agent... as a freeloader Ed Reardon is the acknowledged king of his profession!

Regular characters joining Ed include Felix, the boss of Ed's publishers, Ping his '12 year-old' agent, the lively pensioners he teaches a screenwriting class to, and his old friend the irritatingly rich and successful movie director Jaz Milvane.

In recent series, Ed found himself still battling through the week encountering the numerous '12-year-olds' who run the media (the young Alex heading up the publishing company); teaching the lively bunch of pensioners who can show him a thing or two about moneymaking schemes, frugal living and having a good time; and having regular run-ins with the rather successful Jaz, director of his only ever book-to-screen adaptation.

Written by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds

Produced by Simon Nicholls and Dawn Ellis

A BBC Studios Production.

Ed Reardon's Week is available here: http://tiny.cc/syvfgz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20260664Mon, 25 Nov 2019 15:25:46 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Ed Reardon's Week (Series 11 Episode 6) This sitcom follows the life of Ed Reardon, a curmudgeonly writer who has only managed to have one novel published since the 60s. Despite his distinct lack of success, Ed remains...
This sitcom follows the life of Ed Reardon, a curmudgeonly writer who has only managed to have one novel published since the 60s.

Despite his distinct lack of success, Ed remains bullishly optimistic about his future. Yes, he may only have a single pair of trousers and have one of the lowest sales ranks on Amazon, but no writer knows more about stealing stationery from their agent... as a freeloader Ed Reardon is the acknowledged king of his profession!

Regular characters joining Ed include Felix, the boss of Ed's publishers, Ping his '12 year-old' agent, the lively pensioners he teaches a screenwriting class to, and his old friend the irritatingly rich and successful movie director Jaz Milvane.

In recent series, Ed found himself still battling through the week encountering the numerous '12-year-olds' who run the media (the young Alex heading up the publishing company); teaching the lively bunch of pensioners who can show him a thing or two about moneymaking schemes, frugal living and having a good time; and having regular run-ins with the rather successful Jaz, director of his only ever book-to-screen adaptation.

Written by Christopher Douglas and Andrew Nickolds

Produced by Simon Nicholls and Dawn Ellis

A BBC Studios Production.

Ed Reardon's Week is available here: http://tiny.cc/syvfgz

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3515falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/69-master-of-none--20080120
Master of None follows the personal and professional life of Dev, a 30-year-old actor in New York.

His life goes by in a humorous, yet meaningful sequence of events as he hangs out with his three friends, does his best to find a relationship, whilst trying to get ahead in his career.

All of this proves to be quite difficult because Dev has trouble deciding what he wants to eat, much less what the pathway will be for the rest of his life.

As we journey with him through is social and professional life, he tackles subjects as diverse as the plight of the elderly, the immigrant experience, and how to find the most delicious pasta for dinner.

Written by Aziz Ansari, Lena Waithe, Alan Yang, Aniz Ansari

Produced by Igor Srubshchik

Directed by James Ponsoldt

An Alan Yang / Oh Brudder / Fremulon / 3 Arts Production for Netflix.

Master Of None is available here: https://tinyurl.com/yx6p6o5j

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20080120Mon, 18 Nov 2019 15:04:48 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Master Of None (Series 1 Episode 1) Master of None follows the personal and professional life of Dev, a 30-year-old actor in New York. His life goes by in a humorous, yet meaningful sequence of events as he hangs out with...
Master of None follows the personal and professional life of Dev, a 30-year-old actor in New York.

His life goes by in a humorous, yet meaningful sequence of events as he hangs out with his three friends, does his best to find a relationship, whilst trying to get ahead in his career.

All of this proves to be quite difficult because Dev has trouble deciding what he wants to eat, much less what the pathway will be for the rest of his life.

As we journey with him through is social and professional life, he tackles subjects as diverse as the plight of the elderly, the immigrant experience, and how to find the most delicious pasta for dinner.

Written by Aziz Ansari, Lena Waithe, Alan Yang, Aniz Ansari

Produced by Igor Srubshchik

Directed by James Ponsoldt

An Alan Yang / Oh Brudder / Fremulon / 3 Arts Production for Netflix.

Master Of None is available here: https://tinyurl.com/yx6p6o5j

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3585falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/68-man-down--19955603
Dan is a childish idiot trapped in an adult's life.

He has crushing character flaws, a uniquely dysfunctional set of friends, a teaching job he loathes, and a wilfully insane father conspiring to keep this man down.

Dan's world is at near collapse as Man Down starts. His girlfriend Naomi is fast running out of patience with his inability to navigate the simplest of life tasks, while his best friends are Jo who has, what can only be described as, the loosest of grasp on reality and Brian, a straight-laced financial adviser who is regularly dumbfounded by the complete idiocy of his two friends.

To compound matters Dan's listless teaching career sees him begrudgingly teach a version of the same lesson every day, inexplicably popular with all but one of the pupils, with his only highlight coming in the form of Miss Lipsey, a head mistress who views Dan with a mixture of pity and despair.

Written by Greg Davies

Produced by Spencer Millman, Toby Welch and Jane Wallbank

Directed by Matt Lipsey and Al Campbell

An Avalon Production for Channel 4.

Man Down is available here: https://bit.ly/2PSLRGC

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19955603Mon, 11 Nov 2019 15:05:48 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Man Down (Series 1 Episode 1) Dan is a childish idiot trapped in an adult's life. He has crushing character flaws, a uniquely dysfunctional set of friends, a teaching job he loathes, and a wilfully insane father conspiring...
Dan is a childish idiot trapped in an adult's life.

He has crushing character flaws, a uniquely dysfunctional set of friends, a teaching job he loathes, and a wilfully insane father conspiring to keep this man down.

Dan's world is at near collapse as Man Down starts. His girlfriend Naomi is fast running out of patience with his inability to navigate the simplest of life tasks, while his best friends are Jo who has, what can only be described as, the loosest of grasp on reality and Brian, a straight-laced financial adviser who is regularly dumbfounded by the complete idiocy of his two friends.

To compound matters Dan's listless teaching career sees him begrudgingly teach a version of the same lesson every day, inexplicably popular with all but one of the pupils, with his only highlight coming in the form of Miss Lipsey, a head mistress who views Dan with a mixture of pity and despair.

Written by Greg Davies

Produced by Spencer Millman, Toby Welch and Jane Wallbank

Directed by Matt Lipsey and Al Campbell

An Avalon Production for Channel 4.

Man Down is available here: https://bit.ly/2PSLRGC

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3544falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/67-count-arthur-strong-s-radio-show--19831736
One-time variety star Count Arthur Strong (Steve Delaney) is all tourettic tics, false starts and nervous fumbling, badly covered up by a delicate sheen of bravado and self-assurance.
With his jumbled delivery of words, delusions of grandeur and ability to get monumentally sidetracked, normal daily tasks become a challenge for Arthur and more often than not, those around him too.

Arthur is almost always oblivious to the chaos and delay he causes those he meets. He often ends up blaming them for the confusion he has caused, and can regularly be heard threatening to write a strongly worded letter or pass details on to his solicitor.

On the rare occasions that it does dawn on Arthur that he is at fault, he will attempt to lie his way out of trouble - normally digging himself into an even deeper hole in the process.

Arthur is a cheapskate - amongst those he attempts to get freebies from is Wilf Taylor, his butcher. Other characters who have the misfortune of knowing Arthur include cafe owner Gerry and Malcolm Titter, a naive budding young actor and playwright who stupidly looks to the Count for advice and acting lessons.

Starring Steve Delaney, Alastair Kerr, Dave Mounfield, Mel Giedroyc, Sue Perkins and Joanna Neary

Written by Steve Delaney

Produced by Mark Radcliffe, John Leonard and Richard Daws

A Komedia Entertainment / Smooth Operation Production.

Count Arthur Strong's Radio Show is available here: https://amzn.to/2Pyhe94

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19831736Mon, 04 Nov 2019 15:16:00 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Count Arthur Strong's Radio Show (Series 1 Episode 3) One-time variety star Count Arthur Strong (Steve Delaney) is all tourettic tics, false starts and nervous fumbling, badly covered up by a delicate sheen of bravado and...
One-time variety star Count Arthur Strong (Steve Delaney) is all tourettic tics, false starts and nervous fumbling, badly covered up by a delicate sheen of bravado and self-assurance.
With his jumbled delivery of words, delusions of grandeur and ability to get monumentally sidetracked, normal daily tasks become a challenge for Arthur and more often than not, those around him too.

Arthur is almost always oblivious to the chaos and delay he causes those he meets. He often ends up blaming them for the confusion he has caused, and can regularly be heard threatening to write a strongly worded letter or pass details on to his solicitor.

On the rare occasions that it does dawn on Arthur that he is at fault, he will attempt to lie his way out of trouble - normally digging himself into an even deeper hole in the process.

Arthur is a cheapskate - amongst those he attempts to get freebies from is Wilf Taylor, his butcher. Other characters who have the misfortune of knowing Arthur include cafe owner Gerry and Malcolm Titter, a naive budding young actor and playwright who stupidly looks to the Count for advice and acting lessons.

Starring Steve Delaney, Alastair Kerr, Dave Mounfield, Mel Giedroyc, Sue Perkins and Joanna Neary

Written by Steve Delaney

Produced by Mark Radcliffe, John Leonard and Richard Daws

A Komedia Entertainment / Smooth Operation Production.

Count Arthur Strong's Radio Show is available here: https://amzn.to/2Pyhe94

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3551falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/66-upstart-crow--19713873
It's 1592 and Will Shakespeare is just at the beginning of his extraordinary career. The series focuses on both Will's family and professional life and include the surprising stories of where many of his ideas came from.

Also featured are his wife Anne and his extended family, his servant Bottom, his friends Kate and Marlowe, his theatrical troupe, and his rival Robert Greene.

In the series, Will finds inspiration for Romeo from an unlikely source; mislays a nearly treasonous masterpiece; gets tricked into a very embarrassing pair of tights; has a spot of bother with the wife over some sonnets; meets three witches who predict great things for him; and borrows some money on some rather unusual conditions.

David Mitchell, Rob Rouse, Gemma Whelan, Liza Tarbuck, Harry Enfield, Paula Wilcox, Helen Monks, Steve Speirs.

Written by Ben Elton

Produced by Gareth Edwards

Directed by Matt Lipsey and Richard Boden

A BBC Production.

Upstart Crow is available here: https://bbc.in/2Phwhl1

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19713873Mon, 28 Oct 2019 17:53:56 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Upstart Crow (Series 1 Episode 1) It's 1592 and Will Shakespeare is just at the beginning of his extraordinary career. The series focuses on both Will's family and professional life and include the surprising stories of where...
It's 1592 and Will Shakespeare is just at the beginning of his extraordinary career. The series focuses on both Will's family and professional life and include the surprising stories of where many of his ideas came from.

Also featured are his wife Anne and his extended family, his servant Bottom, his friends Kate and Marlowe, his theatrical troupe, and his rival Robert Greene.

In the series, Will finds inspiration for Romeo from an unlikely source; mislays a nearly treasonous masterpiece; gets tricked into a very embarrassing pair of tights; has a spot of bother with the wife over some sonnets; meets three witches who predict great things for him; and borrows some money on some rather unusual conditions.

David Mitchell, Rob Rouse, Gemma Whelan, Liza Tarbuck, Harry Enfield, Paula Wilcox, Helen Monks, Steve Speirs.

Written by Ben Elton

Produced by Gareth Edwards

Directed by Matt Lipsey and Richard Boden

A BBC Production.

Upstart Crow is available here: https://bbc.in/2Phwhl1

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3471falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/65-hebburn--19608208
Hebburn is a warm and affectionate tale of north east family life.

It tells the tale of the Pearson family and their impetuous and ambitious son, Jack.

After years living in Manchester - and secretly marrying the sweet, middle class and Jewish Sarah - he's now back Tyne-side with his new wife, a new job as the local newspaper's editor, and a baby on the way.

Jack's parents, Joe and Pauline, are devoted to their family and their hometown, and, following a stroke, Joe's now unable to work, leaving Pauline to assume the role of breadwinner - her first 'proper' job in years.

Dot, Joe's wheelchair-confined mother who likes to keep everyone 'up to speed' on her bowel movements, is now living with them, as is daughter Vicki - now, for the first time in her life, harbouring a bit of ambition and attempting to better herself.

Thankfully, Jack and Sarah have finally got their own place, away from the paper-thin walls…

Other characters include Jack's best friend, Ramsey; the 'larger than life' Big Keith; Vicki's boyfriend, pub singer Gervaise; and her best friend, Jack's obsessive ex, Denise - now pregnant, a little reluctantly, by Ramsey…

Starring Chris Ramsey, Kimberley Nixon, Vic Reeves, Gina McKee, Lisa McGrillis, Pat Dunn, Jason Cook and Steffen Peddie.

Written by Jason Cook and Graham Duff

Produced by Gill Isles

Directed by Christine Gernon and Jonathan Gershfield

A Channel X North / Baby Cow Production for BBC.

Hebburn is available here: https://bit.ly/31lHSUM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19608208Mon, 21 Oct 2019 14:28:55 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Hebburn (Series 2 Episode 1) Hebburn is a warm and affectionate tale of north east family life. It tells the tale of the Pearson family and their impetuous and ambitious son, Jack. After years living in Manchester - and...
Hebburn is a warm and affectionate tale of north east family life.

It tells the tale of the Pearson family and their impetuous and ambitious son, Jack.

After years living in Manchester - and secretly marrying the sweet, middle class and Jewish Sarah - he's now back Tyne-side with his new wife, a new job as the local newspaper's editor, and a baby on the way.

Jack's parents, Joe and Pauline, are devoted to their family and their hometown, and, following a stroke, Joe's now unable to work, leaving Pauline to assume the role of breadwinner - her first 'proper' job in years.

Dot, Joe's wheelchair-confined mother who likes to keep everyone 'up to speed' on her bowel movements, is now living with them, as is daughter Vicki - now, for the first time in her life, harbouring a bit of ambition and attempting to better herself.

Thankfully, Jack and Sarah have finally got their own place, away from the paper-thin walls…

Other characters include Jack's best friend, Ramsey; the 'larger than life' Big Keith; Vicki's boyfriend, pub singer Gervaise; and her best friend, Jack's obsessive ex, Denise - now pregnant, a little reluctantly, by Ramsey…

Starring Chris Ramsey, Kimberley Nixon, Vic Reeves, Gina McKee, Lisa McGrillis, Pat Dunn, Jason Cook and Steffen Peddie.

Written by Jason Cook and Graham Duff

Produced by Gill Isles

Directed by Christine Gernon and Jonathan Gershfield

A Channel X North / Baby Cow Production for BBC.

Hebburn is available here: https://bit.ly/31lHSUM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3196falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/64-clare-in-the-community--19484438
Radio sitcom set around the professional and personal life of the social worker Clare Barker.

Control freak Clare likes nothing better than interfering in other people's lives on both a professional and personal basis.

Using constant professional and technical jargon while working with colleagues and at home with her partner Brian, Clare rarely finds time to solve her own problems.

She is too involved improving her client's lives and solving her friend's problems.

For Clare everything is a competition, from having the ultimate linguistic answer to an argument, to improving Brian's lifestyle and their relationship as a couple.

Through frequent 'talks' about their relationship, Clare and Brian agree that they love each other but eventually come to realise that they have little shared interests.

Clare is in her thirties, white, middle-class and heterosexual, all of which are occasional causes of discomfort to her.

Each week we join Clare in her continued struggle to control both her professional and private life. In today's Big Society there are plenty of challenges out there for an involved, caring social worker. Or even Clare.

Starring Sally Phillips, Alex Lowe, Nina Conti, Richard Lumsden, Gemma Craven, Liza Tarbuck and Sarah Kendall.

Written by Harry Venning and David Ramsden

Produced by Katie Tyrrell and Alexandra Smith

A BBC Studios production

Clare In The Community is available here: https://bbc.in/339mZO9

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19484438Mon, 14 Oct 2019 17:35:05 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Clare In The Community (Series 12 Episode 2) Radio sitcom set around the professional and personal life of the social worker Clare Barker. Control freak Clare likes nothing better than interfering in other people's lives...
Radio sitcom set around the professional and personal life of the social worker Clare Barker.

Control freak Clare likes nothing better than interfering in other people's lives on both a professional and personal basis.

Using constant professional and technical jargon while working with colleagues and at home with her partner Brian, Clare rarely finds time to solve her own problems.

She is too involved improving her client's lives and solving her friend's problems.

For Clare everything is a competition, from having the ultimate linguistic answer to an argument, to improving Brian's lifestyle and their relationship as a couple.

Through frequent 'talks' about their relationship, Clare and Brian agree that they love each other but eventually come to realise that they have little shared interests.

Clare is in her thirties, white, middle-class and heterosexual, all of which are occasional causes of discomfort to her.

Each week we join Clare in her continued struggle to control both her professional and private life. In today's Big Society there are plenty of challenges out there for an involved, caring social worker. Or even Clare.

Starring Sally Phillips, Alex Lowe, Nina Conti, Richard Lumsden, Gemma Craven, Liza Tarbuck and Sarah Kendall.

Written by Harry Venning and David Ramsden

Produced by Katie Tyrrell and Alexandra Smith

A BBC Studios production

Clare In The Community is available here: https://bbc.in/339mZO9

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3172falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/63-the-mind-of-herbert-clunkerdunk--19374602
Spencer Jones writes and stars in the The Mind Of Herbert Clunkerdunk, which sees the BAFTA and 2017 Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee as the titular Herbert Clunkerdunk.

This show is an introduction into the mind of Herbert Clunkerdunk, as he talks to us down the lens of the camera and attempts to move around his everyday life - only to be constantly interrupted by his own inventively animated imagination.

Starring Spencer Jones, Lucy Pearman, Dominic Coleman, Winona Jones and Sonny Jones

Written by Spencer Jones

Produced by David Simpson

Directed by Martin Stirling

A Tiger Aspect / Efic Production for the BBC

The Mind Of Herbert Clunkerdunk is available here: https://bbc.in/2yD6htd

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19374602Mon, 07 Oct 2019 21:50:56 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Mind Of Herbert Clunkerdunk (Series 1 Episodes 1 & 2) Spencer Jones writes and stars in the The Mind Of Herbert Clunkerdunk, which sees the BAFTA and 2017 Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee as the titular Herbert Clunkerdunk....
Spencer Jones writes and stars in the The Mind Of Herbert Clunkerdunk, which sees the BAFTA and 2017 Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee as the titular Herbert Clunkerdunk.

This show is an introduction into the mind of Herbert Clunkerdunk, as he talks to us down the lens of the camera and attempts to move around his everyday life - only to be constantly interrupted by his own inventively animated imagination.

Starring Spencer Jones, Lucy Pearman, Dominic Coleman, Winona Jones and Sonny Jones

Written by Spencer Jones

Produced by David Simpson

Directed by Martin Stirling

A Tiger Aspect / Efic Production for the BBC

The Mind Of Herbert Clunkerdunk is available here: https://bbc.in/2yD6htd

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3387falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/62-listen-to-les--19282897
If You Can’t Laugh At Your Troubles Then Laugh At His, As You ….. Listen To Les

Listen To Les was a long running BBC Radio series starring the late great Les Dawson. 

Very little information about the series exists, although it’s regularly repeated on BBC Radio 4 Extra.

As far as we can ascertain the show ran for ten series between 1975 and 1985, although we have been unable to completely verify this.

Listen To Les was a sketch show in which Les Dawson performed various deadpan monologues and recurring character sketches.

These included “At Home with the Desponds”, “The Sophisticates” and “Cissy and Ada”

Every show would end with Dawson calling upon the studio audience to join him in a singalong with a popular or classic song, which he would deliberately play badly at the piano.

In this episode, Les presents 'Love in the Dole Queue' and meet Cosmo Smallpiece.
 
With Daphne Oxenford and Colin Edwynn.

Music by Brian Fitzgerald.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in November 1979.

Scripted and produced by James Casey.

A BBC Production

Listen To Les is available to buy here: https://bbc.in/2mGHd1M

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19282897Mon, 30 Sep 2019 14:35:28 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Listen To Les (From 18th November 1979) If You Can’t Laugh At Your Troubles Then Laugh At His, As You ….. Listen To Les Listen To Les was a long running BBC Radio series starring the late great Les Dawson.  Very little...
If You Can’t Laugh At Your Troubles Then Laugh At His, As You ….. Listen To Les

Listen To Les was a long running BBC Radio series starring the late great Les Dawson. 

Very little information about the series exists, although it’s regularly repeated on BBC Radio 4 Extra.

As far as we can ascertain the show ran for ten series between 1975 and 1985, although we have been unable to completely verify this.

Listen To Les was a sketch show in which Les Dawson performed various deadpan monologues and recurring character sketches.

These included “At Home with the Desponds”, “The Sophisticates” and “Cissy and Ada”

Every show would end with Dawson calling upon the studio audience to join him in a singalong with a popular or classic song, which he would deliberately play badly at the piano.

In this episode, Les presents 'Love in the Dole Queue' and meet Cosmo Smallpiece.
 
With Daphne Oxenford and Colin Edwynn.

Music by Brian Fitzgerald.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in November 1979.

Scripted and produced by James Casey.

A BBC Production

Listen To Les is available to buy here: https://bbc.in/2mGHd1M

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3094falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/61-brian-gulliver-s-travels--19199736
A BBC Radio 4 satirical comedy series about a seasoned presenter of travel documentaries, Brian Gulliver, who finds himself in a hospital's secure unit after claiming to have experienced a succession of bizarre adventures.

Originally broadcast 21 February 2011 - 28 March 2011.

Brian Gulliver's Travels is a new adventure story from Bill Dare (producer of Spitting Image, Dead Ringers and I've Never Seen Star Wars).

The series has attracted an excellent cast led by Neil Pearson (Drop The Dead Donkey, Bridget Jones's Diary) and award winning star Mariah Gale (Ophelia in BBC TV's 2009 production of Hamlet).

We hear about Brian's travels in Gelbetia, a country run by doctors; Juradia, where every other person is a lawyer; Osminia, a land where marriage is outlawed; Sham, a country where alternative therapies abound; Erosia, which has a very different view of sexual politics; and Jampoa, where fame definitely equals fortune.

In addition to Neil Pearson and Mariah Gale, the cast also includes Tamsin Greig, Paul Bhattacharjee, Vicky Pepperdine, Phil Cornwell and Katherine Jakeways.

Written by Bill Dare

Produced by Steven Canny

A BBC Production

Brian Gulliver's Travels is available to buy here: https://adbl.co/2m501HS

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19199736Mon, 23 Sep 2019 14:29:06 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Brian Gulliver's Travels (Series 2, Episode 2) A BBC Radio 4 satirical comedy series about a seasoned presenter of travel documentaries, Brian Gulliver, who finds himself in a hospital's secure unit after claiming to have...
A BBC Radio 4 satirical comedy series about a seasoned presenter of travel documentaries, Brian Gulliver, who finds himself in a hospital's secure unit after claiming to have experienced a succession of bizarre adventures.

Originally broadcast 21 February 2011 - 28 March 2011.

Brian Gulliver's Travels is a new adventure story from Bill Dare (producer of Spitting Image, Dead Ringers and I've Never Seen Star Wars).

The series has attracted an excellent cast led by Neil Pearson (Drop The Dead Donkey, Bridget Jones's Diary) and award winning star Mariah Gale (Ophelia in BBC TV's 2009 production of Hamlet).

We hear about Brian's travels in Gelbetia, a country run by doctors; Juradia, where every other person is a lawyer; Osminia, a land where marriage is outlawed; Sham, a country where alternative therapies abound; Erosia, which has a very different view of sexual politics; and Jampoa, where fame definitely equals fortune.

In addition to Neil Pearson and Mariah Gale, the cast also includes Tamsin Greig, Paul Bhattacharjee, Vicky Pepperdine, Phil Cornwell and Katherine Jakeways.

Written by Bill Dare

Produced by Steven Canny

A BBC Production

Brian Gulliver's Travels is available to buy here: https://adbl.co/2m501HS

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3483falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/60-w1a--19118112
Ian Fletcher, the ex Head of the Olympic Deliverance Commission, takes up his next big job - the Head of Values at the BBC.

His task is to clarify, define, or re-define the core purpose of the BBC across all its functions and to position it confidently for the future, in particular for Licence Fee Renegotiation and Charter Renewal in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Reith was then; this is now.

The post is sold to Ian as a chance to influence and shape one of the great British institutions.

His job is to think Big Thoughts, but it doesn't him take long to realise that not only does he not have time to think Big Thoughts, he never has time to think any thoughts at all.

Written by John Morton

Produced by Paul Schlesinger

Directed by John Morton

A BBC Studios Production

W1A is available here: https://bbc.in/2lPwyRM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19118112Mon, 16 Sep 2019 21:12:53 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - W1A (Series 3, Episode 1) Ian Fletcher, the ex Head of the Olympic Deliverance Commission, takes up his next big job - the Head of Values at the BBC. His task is to clarify, define, or re-define the core purpose of the BBC...
Ian Fletcher, the ex Head of the Olympic Deliverance Commission, takes up his next big job - the Head of Values at the BBC.

His task is to clarify, define, or re-define the core purpose of the BBC across all its functions and to position it confidently for the future, in particular for Licence Fee Renegotiation and Charter Renewal in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Reith was then; this is now.

The post is sold to Ian as a chance to influence and shape one of the great British institutions.

His job is to think Big Thoughts, but it doesn't him take long to realise that not only does he not have time to think Big Thoughts, he never has time to think any thoughts at all.

Written by John Morton

Produced by Paul Schlesinger

Directed by John Morton

A BBC Studios Production

W1A is available here: https://bbc.in/2lPwyRM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3051falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/59-this-way-up--19040785
This Way Up is a comedy about moving on, moving forward and trying to find happiness.

Written by Aisling Bea, she also stars as the charming and funny Aine, who is trying to pull her life back together after a "teeny little nervous breakdown".

Her sister Shona, played by Sharon Horgan, is increasingly worried about both her sister and her own mortality. And whether or not there's room in her apartment for her boyfriend, Vish, now that she's bought that new coffee table.

Aine works at a foreign language school and is a magnet for an eclectic collection of foreign and lost characters who are all trying to find their own hope and happiness in this messy world.

Through Aine's own experiences, and through the experiences of those around her, This Way Up explores how the pursuit of happiness differs for everybody and unveils the obstacles, some social and some mental, which come between that goal and the tougher reality of daily lives.

Happiness is a destination we all want to reach, but how we get there is never easy. This Way Up is a pin-sharp, poignant comedy which, with warmth and keen-edged wit, shows that the journey to happiness is harder for some than others.

Written by Aisling Bea

Produced by Gavin O'Grady

A Merman Production for Channel 4

This Way Up is available here: https://bit.ly/2lWeLIM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19040785Mon, 09 Sep 2019 14:39:26 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - This Way Up (Series 1, Episode 1) This Way Up is a comedy about moving on, moving forward and trying to find happiness. Written by Aisling Bea, she also stars as the charming and funny Aine, who is trying to pull her life...
This Way Up is a comedy about moving on, moving forward and trying to find happiness.

Written by Aisling Bea, she also stars as the charming and funny Aine, who is trying to pull her life back together after a "teeny little nervous breakdown".

Her sister Shona, played by Sharon Horgan, is increasingly worried about both her sister and her own mortality. And whether or not there's room in her apartment for her boyfriend, Vish, now that she's bought that new coffee table.

Aine works at a foreign language school and is a magnet for an eclectic collection of foreign and lost characters who are all trying to find their own hope and happiness in this messy world.

Through Aine's own experiences, and through the experiences of those around her, This Way Up explores how the pursuit of happiness differs for everybody and unveils the obstacles, some social and some mental, which come between that goal and the tougher reality of daily lives.

Happiness is a destination we all want to reach, but how we get there is never easy. This Way Up is a pin-sharp, poignant comedy which, with warmth and keen-edged wit, shows that the journey to happiness is harder for some than others.

Written by Aisling Bea

Produced by Gavin O'Grady

A Merman Production for Channel 4

This Way Up is available here: https://bit.ly/2lWeLIM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3463falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/58-the-absolutely-radio-show--18862695
The original television series, produced by Absolutely Productions, aired on Channel 4 for four series between May 1989 and February 1993.

Following an award-winning (BBC Audio Drama award for best live scripted comedy) reunion special for BBC Radio 4, the show returned for a new four-part radio series with most of the original cast in September 2015.

The new series, a co-production between Absolutely Productions Ltd and The Comedy Unit, was recorded on two evenings in August and September 2015 at The Oran Mor in Glasgow and featured the original cast, without Jack Docherty.

The first episode was broadcast on Sunday 6 September 2015.

Written by Pete Baikie, Morwenna Banks, Moray Hunter, Gordon Kennedy and John Sparkes

Produced by Gordon Kennedy & Gus Beattie

An Absolutely Production for The BBC

The Absolutely Radio Show is available here: https://bbc.in/2Z0lymM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18862695Mon, 02 Sep 2019 19:02:51 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Absolutely Radio Show (Series 3, Episode 4) The original television series, produced by Absolutely Productions, aired on Channel 4 for four series between May 1989 and February 1993. Following an award-winning (BBC...
The original television series, produced by Absolutely Productions, aired on Channel 4 for four series between May 1989 and February 1993.

Following an award-winning (BBC Audio Drama award for best live scripted comedy) reunion special for BBC Radio 4, the show returned for a new four-part radio series with most of the original cast in September 2015.

The new series, a co-production between Absolutely Productions Ltd and The Comedy Unit, was recorded on two evenings in August and September 2015 at The Oran Mor in Glasgow and featured the original cast, without Jack Docherty.

The first episode was broadcast on Sunday 6 September 2015.

Written by Pete Baikie, Morwenna Banks, Moray Hunter, Gordon Kennedy and John Sparkes

Produced by Gordon Kennedy & Gus Beattie

An Absolutely Production for The BBC

The Absolutely Radio Show is available here: https://bbc.in/2Z0lymM

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3101falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/57-simon-evans-goes-to-market--18858869
Simon Evans sets himself the challenge to make economics funny in this comprehensive guide to global markets.

Each week, Simon takes on a different commodity market with a little help from Tim Harford, Merryn Somerset Webb and a guest expert.
By looking at four products that are so fundamental to our lives, the series brings us closer to understanding how the world economy affects us and how we affect it.

Featuring Simon Evans, Tim Harford, Merryn Somerset Webb and Timandra Harkness

Written by Simon Evans, Benjamin Partridge, Andy Wolton and Guy Venables

Produced by Tilusha Ghelani, Claire Jones and Richard Morris.

A BBC Radio Comedy production.

Simon Evans Goes To Market is available here: https://bbc.in/2KBPwFC

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18858869Mon, 26 Aug 2019 15:12:52 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Simon Evans Goes To Market (Series 2, Episode 1) Simon Evans sets himself the challenge to make economics funny in this comprehensive guide to global markets. Each week, Simon takes on a different commodity market with a...
Simon Evans sets himself the challenge to make economics funny in this comprehensive guide to global markets.

Each week, Simon takes on a different commodity market with a little help from Tim Harford, Merryn Somerset Webb and a guest expert.
By looking at four products that are so fundamental to our lives, the series brings us closer to understanding how the world economy affects us and how we affect it.

Featuring Simon Evans, Tim Harford, Merryn Somerset Webb and Timandra Harkness

Written by Simon Evans, Benjamin Partridge, Andy Wolton and Guy Venables

Produced by Tilusha Ghelani, Claire Jones and Richard Morris.

A BBC Radio Comedy production.

Simon Evans Goes To Market is available here: https://bbc.in/2KBPwFC

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3198falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/56-lobby-land--18806545
Topical sitcom following life in Westminster through the eyes of Sam Peakes, a young political editor at a clickbait website, as she tries to make sense of the madness engulfing British politics.

Starring Ophelia Lovibond as Samantha Peakes, Charlie Higson as Tom Shriver MP, Cariad Lloyd as Mia Hamilton, Lewis Macleod as Dom Bell and Ryan Sampson as Lawrence Mills.

Written by Christopher Davies, Alistair Griggs, Jon Harvey and Sarah Dempster

Produced by Jon Harvey

A Naked Production for BBC Radio 4

Lobby Land is available here: https://bbc.in/2yNUbxB

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18806545Mon, 19 Aug 2019 17:48:16 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Lobbyland (Series 2, Episode 4) Topical sitcom following life in Westminster through the eyes of Sam Peakes, a young political editor at a clickbait website, as she tries to make sense of the madness engulfing British...
Topical sitcom following life in Westminster through the eyes of Sam Peakes, a young political editor at a clickbait website, as she tries to make sense of the madness engulfing British politics.

Starring Ophelia Lovibond as Samantha Peakes, Charlie Higson as Tom Shriver MP, Cariad Lloyd as Mia Hamilton, Lewis Macleod as Dom Bell and Ryan Sampson as Lawrence Mills.

Written by Christopher Davies, Alistair Griggs, Jon Harvey and Sarah Dempster

Produced by Jon Harvey

A Naked Production for BBC Radio 4

Lobby Land is available here: https://bbc.in/2yNUbxB

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3315falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/55-gameface--18797243
Comedy series following Marcella as she spiritedly crashes her way through life, assisted by her dubious life-coach, best friends and ever-patient driving instructor.

Bouncing back from a seismic break-up, clinging on to her dreams of becoming an actress, and - when she remembers her lessons - finally learning to drive, Marcella is on a mission to change her future for the better.

Starring Roisin Conaty as Marcella and packed with wry and idiosyncratic observations, GameFace is a witty, tender and resonant comedy about navigating your thirties when you're under-prepared - but somehow always staying afloat.

Written by Roisin Conaty

Producer by Charlotte Lewis and Izzy Mant

An Objective Fiction production for Channel 4

Gameface is available here: https://bit.ly/2yUlZQI

And is available to buy at: https://amzn.to/305dmPa

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18797243Mon, 12 Aug 2019 12:41:39 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Gameface (Series 1, Episode 1) Comedy series following Marcella as she spiritedly crashes her way through life, assisted by her dubious life-coach, best friends and ever-patient driving instructor. Bouncing back from a...
Comedy series following Marcella as she spiritedly crashes her way through life, assisted by her dubious life-coach, best friends and ever-patient driving instructor.

Bouncing back from a seismic break-up, clinging on to her dreams of becoming an actress, and - when she remembers her lessons - finally learning to drive, Marcella is on a mission to change her future for the better.

Starring Roisin Conaty as Marcella and packed with wry and idiosyncratic observations, GameFace is a witty, tender and resonant comedy about navigating your thirties when you're under-prepared - but somehow always staying afloat.

Written by Roisin Conaty

Producer by Charlotte Lewis and Izzy Mant

An Objective Fiction production for Channel 4

Gameface is available here: https://bit.ly/2yUlZQI

And is available to buy at: https://amzn.to/305dmPa

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3227falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/54-the-pin--18722662
Award-winning comedy duo The Pin present their own sketch show.

Strap in and delve in to a world of oddness, performed in front of a live studio audience.

The Pin radio show sees double-act Alex Owen and Ben Ashenden revise, tweak and comment on their sketches as they go, deconstructing the boundary between them and the listener, revealing the twisted logic behind their skewed approach to comedy and life.

After a sold-out run in Edinburgh and a string of performances across BBC Radio 4 Extra, BBC Three, Channel 4 and Comedy Central,
The Pin made their BBC Radio 4 debut in this show.

Fans of the show range from David Walliams to Ben Stiller.

Written by Ben Ashenden and Alexander Owen

Producer by Sam Bryant and Sam Michell

A BBC Studios Production

The Pin is available here: https://bbc.in/2GENoKL

The Pin website is at: https://www.thepincomedy.com

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18722662Mon, 05 Aug 2019 15:03:14 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Pin (Series 4, Episode 4) Award-winning comedy duo The Pin present their own sketch show. Strap in and delve in to a world of oddness, performed in front of a live studio audience. The Pin radio show sees...
Award-winning comedy duo The Pin present their own sketch show.

Strap in and delve in to a world of oddness, performed in front of a live studio audience.

The Pin radio show sees double-act Alex Owen and Ben Ashenden revise, tweak and comment on their sketches as they go, deconstructing the boundary between them and the listener, revealing the twisted logic behind their skewed approach to comedy and life.

After a sold-out run in Edinburgh and a string of performances across BBC Radio 4 Extra, BBC Three, Channel 4 and Comedy Central,
The Pin made their BBC Radio 4 debut in this show.

Fans of the show range from David Walliams to Ben Stiller.

Written by Ben Ashenden and Alexander Owen

Producer by Sam Bryant and Sam Michell

A BBC Studios Production

The Pin is available here: https://bbc.in/2GENoKL

The Pin website is at: https://www.thepincomedy.com

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3376falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/53-archer--18660965
Archer is an American adult animated sitcom created by Adam Reed for the basic cable network FX.

It follows the exploits of the title character (voiced by H. Jon Benjamin), a dysfunctional, irreverent secret agent and seven of his colleagues. Domineering boss (and Archer's mother) Malory Archer (Jessica Walter), professional Lana Kane (Aisha Tyler), mild-mannered Cyril Figgis (Chris Parnell), delusional, psychotic Cheryl Tunt (Judy Greer), gossipy Pam Poovey (Amber Nash), openly gay Ray Gillette (Adam Reed) and bizarre, mysterious Dr. Algernop Krieger (Lucky Yates).

The premise of Archer evolves in subsequent seasons as the show experiments with the standard setup of an anthology, each with self-contained arcs, new settings, a disparate set of personae for each character, even distinct humor.

Archer was conceived by Reed shortly after the cancellation of his Adult Swim comedy Frisky Dingo and draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including the James Bond franchise.

The show's hallmarks include reference-heavy humour, rapid-fire dialogue, and meta-comedy. 

Archer is produced using limited animation and takes its visual style from mid-century comic art.

The cast members record their lines individually, and the show regularly employs guest actors and actresses for supporting characters.

Created by Adam Reed

Executive Producers Adam Reed / Matt Thompson / Casey Willis

A Floyd County Production for FX

Archer is available here: https://bit.ly/2GnFgyf

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18660965Mon, 29 Jul 2019 20:54:34 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Archer (Series 1, Episode 1) Archer is an American adult animated sitcom created by Adam Reed for the basic cable network FX. It follows the exploits of the title character (voiced by H. Jon Benjamin), a dysfunctional,...
Archer is an American adult animated sitcom created by Adam Reed for the basic cable network FX.

It follows the exploits of the title character (voiced by H. Jon Benjamin), a dysfunctional, irreverent secret agent and seven of his colleagues. Domineering boss (and Archer's mother) Malory Archer (Jessica Walter), professional Lana Kane (Aisha Tyler), mild-mannered Cyril Figgis (Chris Parnell), delusional, psychotic Cheryl Tunt (Judy Greer), gossipy Pam Poovey (Amber Nash), openly gay Ray Gillette (Adam Reed) and bizarre, mysterious Dr. Algernop Krieger (Lucky Yates).

The premise of Archer evolves in subsequent seasons as the show experiments with the standard setup of an anthology, each with self-contained arcs, new settings, a disparate set of personae for each character, even distinct humor.

Archer was conceived by Reed shortly after the cancellation of his Adult Swim comedy Frisky Dingo and draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including the James Bond franchise.

The show's hallmarks include reference-heavy humour, rapid-fire dialogue, and meta-comedy. 

Archer is produced using limited animation and takes its visual style from mid-century comic art.

The cast members record their lines individually, and the show regularly employs guest actors and actresses for supporting characters.

Created by Adam Reed

Executive Producers Adam Reed / Matt Thompson / Casey Willis

A Floyd County Production for FX

Archer is available here: https://bit.ly/2GnFgyf

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2958truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/52-east-coast-listening-post--18606254
The East Coast Listening Post was created by Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated duo Lazy Susan and is part spoof, part homage to popular US podcasts.

Across the series, Jenna and Dana (journalists, sisters, idiots) tour the UK and interview its inhabitants in their quest to reveal something meaningful - inadvertently revealing themselves in the process.

Freya Parker is an actor and comedian and one half of Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated Lazy Susan.

As an independent performer she has appeared in Josh and The Mash Report on TV and The Now Show, Newsjack and Homefront on radio. 

Celeste Dring is a comedy writer, performer and the other half of Lazy Susan.

Celeste has also appeared in Sketchorama, Newsjack and My Fancy Dressed Life on radio and Wanderlust, This Country and The Windsors on TV.

David Elms is an actor, improviser, writer and stand-up comedian who has performed his solo shows Nurture Boy, Mister Boy and, Goody Boy at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Written by Celeste Dring and Freya Parker

Produced by Suzy Grant

The East Coast Listening Post is available here https://bbc.in/2SeRkqa

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18606254Mon, 22 Jul 2019 19:09:12 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - East Coast Listening Post (Series 2, Tattoo & Laugh) The East Coast Listening Post was created by Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated duo Lazy Susan and is part spoof, part homage to popular US podcasts. Across the series,...
The East Coast Listening Post was created by Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated duo Lazy Susan and is part spoof, part homage to popular US podcasts.

Across the series, Jenna and Dana (journalists, sisters, idiots) tour the UK and interview its inhabitants in their quest to reveal something meaningful - inadvertently revealing themselves in the process.

Freya Parker is an actor and comedian and one half of Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated Lazy Susan.

As an independent performer she has appeared in Josh and The Mash Report on TV and The Now Show, Newsjack and Homefront on radio. 

Celeste Dring is a comedy writer, performer and the other half of Lazy Susan.

Celeste has also appeared in Sketchorama, Newsjack and My Fancy Dressed Life on radio and Wanderlust, This Country and The Windsors on TV.

David Elms is an actor, improviser, writer and stand-up comedian who has performed his solo shows Nurture Boy, Mister Boy and, Goody Boy at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Written by Celeste Dring and Freya Parker

Produced by Suzy Grant

The East Coast Listening Post is available here https://bbc.in/2SeRkqa

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3262falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/51-cabin-pressure--18552098
Set in a small airline business, Cabin Pressure is a comedy about the wing and a prayer world of a tiny, one-plane charter airline staffed by two pilots - one on his way down, and one who was never up to start with.

Whether they're flying squaddies to Hamburg, metal sheets to Mozambique, transporting lads on a stag night or shifting a panther for the odd oil sheik, no job is too small - but many jobs prove to be too difficult - for MJN Air!

The airline is run by forbidding divorcee Carolyn Knapp-Shappey who, at last, in her mid-60s, is free of her awful husband, but pleasingly not free of his private jet.

Her two pilots are the smooth, experienced and almost certainly fired-by-a-big-airline-for-all-round-naughtiness Douglas, and the struggling, almost competent sweaty young captain Martin.

General help is provided by Carolyn's dim-witted son Arthur.

Written by John Finnemore

Produced by David Tyler

A Pozzitive Production for The BBC

Cabin Pressure is available here https://bbc.in/2L4V5Ok

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18552098Mon, 15 Jul 2019 19:48:43 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Cabin Pressure (Series 3 Episode 2) Set in a small airline business, Cabin Pressure is a comedy about the wing and a prayer world of a tiny, one-plane charter airline staffed by two pilots - one on his way down, and one who...
Set in a small airline business, Cabin Pressure is a comedy about the wing and a prayer world of a tiny, one-plane charter airline staffed by two pilots - one on his way down, and one who was never up to start with.

Whether they're flying squaddies to Hamburg, metal sheets to Mozambique, transporting lads on a stag night or shifting a panther for the odd oil sheik, no job is too small - but many jobs prove to be too difficult - for MJN Air!

The airline is run by forbidding divorcee Carolyn Knapp-Shappey who, at last, in her mid-60s, is free of her awful husband, but pleasingly not free of his private jet.

Her two pilots are the smooth, experienced and almost certainly fired-by-a-big-airline-for-all-round-naughtiness Douglas, and the struggling, almost competent sweaty young captain Martin.

General help is provided by Carolyn's dim-witted son Arthur.

Written by John Finnemore

Produced by David Tyler

A Pozzitive Production for The BBC

Cabin Pressure is available here https://bbc.in/2L4V5Ok

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3085falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/50-year-of-the-rabbit--18483966
London, 1887. A lawless city. Jewel thieves and body snatchers stalk the streets and the police do their best to contain them - but it isn't easy.

At the forefront of that fight is Detective Inspector Rabbit.
Rabbit's been chasing bad guys for as long as he can remember, but now he's not as young as he was and his heart keeps stopping at inopportune moments.

So Rabbit's boss, Chief Inspector Wisbech forces him to get a partner - young, fresh-faced and clueless Sergeant Strauss, just down from Cambridge.

He isn't cut out for this sort of work. He's only ever read about the East End in pamphlets. But he's really, really keen.

In the East End, crime is relentless so when they're tasked with solving the murder of another young women, it doesn't seem that unusual.

Until they notice a second bullet hole, and a mysterious symbol on her make up compact, which leads them into a labyrinthine quest for a killer, while rubbing shoulders with crooked politicians.

Along the way, they team up with Mabel, the daughter of the Chief of Police, who has ambitions to become the first female police officer, or 'Fopper'.

Written by Kevin Cecil and Andy Riley

Directed by Ben Taylor

Produced by Hannah Mackay

An Objective Media production.

Year Of The Rabbit is available here https://bit.ly/2XQ7OdB

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18483966Mon, 08 Jul 2019 14:39:02 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Year Of The Rabbit (Series 1 Episode 51) London, 1887. A lawless city. Jewel thieves and body snatchers stalk the streets and the police do their best to contain them - but it isn't easy. At the forefront of that fight is...
London, 1887. A lawless city. Jewel thieves and body snatchers stalk the streets and the police do their best to contain them - but it isn't easy.

At the forefront of that fight is Detective Inspector Rabbit.
Rabbit's been chasing bad guys for as long as he can remember, but now he's not as young as he was and his heart keeps stopping at inopportune moments.

So Rabbit's boss, Chief Inspector Wisbech forces him to get a partner - young, fresh-faced and clueless Sergeant Strauss, just down from Cambridge.

He isn't cut out for this sort of work. He's only ever read about the East End in pamphlets. But he's really, really keen.

In the East End, crime is relentless so when they're tasked with solving the murder of another young women, it doesn't seem that unusual.

Until they notice a second bullet hole, and a mysterious symbol on her make up compact, which leads them into a labyrinthine quest for a killer, while rubbing shoulders with crooked politicians.

Along the way, they team up with Mabel, the daughter of the Chief of Police, who has ambitions to become the first female police officer, or 'Fopper'.

Written by Kevin Cecil and Andy Riley

Directed by Ben Taylor

Produced by Hannah Mackay

An Objective Media production.

Year Of The Rabbit is available here https://bit.ly/2XQ7OdB

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3119truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/49-don-t-forget-the-driver--18422901
A dark comedy set in sunny seaside Bognor Regis. It explores what it means to live, work and parent at a point when the entire UK population is having to come to terms with the changing colour of their passports.

Coach driver and single dad Peter Green leads a life of ordinary routine; clip on ties, limp packed lunches, vehicle checks, round-trip coach journeys ferrying church groups to donkey sanctuaries and Japanese tourists to Canterbury Cathedral.

Green is at full stretch just about coping with his disaffected daughter Kayla (bored to a state of almost total inertia in a place that has nothing for her) and Audrey, his mum, whose life is rapidly descending into confusion and fear.

The discovery of a dead body on the docile Bognor shoreline and an unsettling meeting with a new arrival in town throws Green's life into chaos - a lost soul in need of assistance, who he could help. But will he? Can he?

Don't Forget The Driver follows a group of people struggling with their place in the world, their own sense of identity, and reveals how, in one single moment, even in the most ordinary of lives, an accidental encounter can change the course of everything.

Written by Toby Jones and Tim Crouch

Produced by Holly Pullinger

Directed by Tim Kirkby

Sister Pictures / Hootenanny production for BBC.

Don't Forget The Driver is available here https://amzn.to/2N1TSsI

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18422901Mon, 01 Jul 2019 19:22:31 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Don't Forget The Driver (Series 1 Episode 5) A dark comedy set in sunny seaside Bognor Regis. It explores what it means to live, work and parent at a point when the entire UK population is having to come to terms with the...
A dark comedy set in sunny seaside Bognor Regis. It explores what it means to live, work and parent at a point when the entire UK population is having to come to terms with the changing colour of their passports.

Coach driver and single dad Peter Green leads a life of ordinary routine; clip on ties, limp packed lunches, vehicle checks, round-trip coach journeys ferrying church groups to donkey sanctuaries and Japanese tourists to Canterbury Cathedral.

Green is at full stretch just about coping with his disaffected daughter Kayla (bored to a state of almost total inertia in a place that has nothing for her) and Audrey, his mum, whose life is rapidly descending into confusion and fear.

The discovery of a dead body on the docile Bognor shoreline and an unsettling meeting with a new arrival in town throws Green's life into chaos - a lost soul in need of assistance, who he could help. But will he? Can he?

Don't Forget The Driver follows a group of people struggling with their place in the world, their own sense of identity, and reveals how, in one single moment, even in the most ordinary of lives, an accidental encounter can change the course of everything.

Written by Toby Jones and Tim Crouch

Produced by Holly Pullinger

Directed by Tim Kirkby

Sister Pictures / Hootenanny production for BBC.

Don't Forget The Driver is available here https://amzn.to/2N1TSsI

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3431falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/48-the-wrong-mans--18350643
From actor/writer duo James Corden and Mathew Baynton, The Wrong Mans series centres on Sam Pinkett and Phil Bourne, office workers for Berkshire County Council, who have their menial existence turned upside-down by a chance phone call and a case of mistaken identity.

After being sole witness to a car crash on a desolate country road, Sam answers an abandoned mobile telephone and hears a message that was clearly not meant for him: "If you are not here by 5 o'clock, we will kill your wife".

Encouraged by office mailroom delivery boy Phil that they can be the heroes of the hour, the duo soon find themselves plunged into a deadly kidnap situation.

Written by James Corden & Mathew Baynton.

Produced by Jim Field Smith and Charlie Leech

The Wrong Mans is available here https://bbc.in/2KsDEac

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18350643Mon, 24 Jun 2019 15:33:51 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Wrong Mans (Series 1 Episode 1) From actor/writer duo James Corden and Mathew Baynton, The Wrong Mans series centres on Sam Pinkett and Phil Bourne, office workers for Berkshire County Council, who have their menial...
From actor/writer duo James Corden and Mathew Baynton, The Wrong Mans series centres on Sam Pinkett and Phil Bourne, office workers for Berkshire County Council, who have their menial existence turned upside-down by a chance phone call and a case of mistaken identity.

After being sole witness to a car crash on a desolate country road, Sam answers an abandoned mobile telephone and hears a message that was clearly not meant for him: "If you are not here by 5 o'clock, we will kill your wife".

Encouraged by office mailroom delivery boy Phil that they can be the heroes of the hour, the duo soon find themselves plunged into a deadly kidnap situation.

Written by James Corden & Mathew Baynton.

Produced by Jim Field Smith and Charlie Leech

The Wrong Mans is available here https://bbc.in/2KsDEac

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3069truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/47-good-omens--18289875
According to The Nice And Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch (the world's only completely accurate book of prophecies), the world will end on a Saturday. Next Saturday, in fact. Just before dinner.

So the armies of Good and Evil are amassing, Atlantis is rising, tempers are flaring. Everything appears to be going according to Divine Plan. Except Aziraphale, a somewhat fussy angel, and Crowley, a fast-living demon - both of whom have lived among Earth's mortals since The Beginning and have grown rather fond of the lifestyle - are not actually looking forward to the coming war.

And someone seems to have misplaced the Antichrist...

Written by Terry Pratchett (adapted by Neil Gaiman)

Directed by Douglas Mackinnon

Good Omens is available here https://amzn.to/31w0lPY

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18289875Mon, 17 Jun 2019 19:01:06 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Good Omens (Series 1 Episode 1) According to The Nice And Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch (the world's only completely accurate book of prophecies), the world will end on a Saturday. Next Saturday, in fact. Just...
According to The Nice And Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch (the world's only completely accurate book of prophecies), the world will end on a Saturday. Next Saturday, in fact. Just before dinner.

So the armies of Good and Evil are amassing, Atlantis is rising, tempers are flaring. Everything appears to be going according to Divine Plan. Except Aziraphale, a somewhat fussy angel, and Crowley, a fast-living demon - both of whom have lived among Earth's mortals since The Beginning and have grown rather fond of the lifestyle - are not actually looking forward to the coming war.

And someone seems to have misplaced the Antichrist...

Written by Terry Pratchett (adapted by Neil Gaiman)

Directed by Douglas Mackinnon

Good Omens is available here https://amzn.to/31w0lPY

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3329falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/46-benny-hill-time--18230403
Despite re-running this radio series, all the BBC can find to say about this show is "The master of double entendre presents sketches including Fred Scuttle. With Peter Vernon and Jan Waters. From March 1964." Perhaps they were still smarting from his choice to work with Thames Television for 20 years.

However, we do know that Alfred Hawthorne Hill was born on 21 January 1924 in Southampton.

After the Second World War, Hill worked as a performer on radio and his first appearance on television was in 1950.

In addition, he attempted a sitcom anthology, Benny Hill, which ran from 1962 to 1963, in which he played a different character in each episode and in 1964, he played Nick Bottom in an all-star TV film production of William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.

He also had a radio programme lasting for three series called Benny Hill Time on BBC Radio's Light Programme, from 1964 to 1966. It was a topical show with episodes from March 1964 featured James Pond 0017 in "From Moscow with Love" and his version of "The Beatles".

He played a number of characters in the series, such as Harry Hill and Fred Scuttle.

Written by Benny Hill

Produced by John Brown

Benny Hill Time is available here https://bbc.in/2MifIYP

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18230403Mon, 10 Jun 2019 19:30:15 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Benny Hill Time (From March 1964) Despite re-running this radio series, all the BBC can find to say about this show is "The master of double entendre presents sketches including Fred Scuttle. With Peter Vernon and Jan Waters....
Despite re-running this radio series, all the BBC can find to say about this show is "The master of double entendre presents sketches including Fred Scuttle. With Peter Vernon and Jan Waters. From March 1964." Perhaps they were still smarting from his choice to work with Thames Television for 20 years.

However, we do know that Alfred Hawthorne Hill was born on 21 January 1924 in Southampton.

After the Second World War, Hill worked as a performer on radio and his first appearance on television was in 1950.

In addition, he attempted a sitcom anthology, Benny Hill, which ran from 1962 to 1963, in which he played a different character in each episode and in 1964, he played Nick Bottom in an all-star TV film production of William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.

He also had a radio programme lasting for three series called Benny Hill Time on BBC Radio's Light Programme, from 1964 to 1966. It was a topical show with episodes from March 1964 featured James Pond 0017 in "From Moscow with Love" and his version of "The Beatles".

He played a number of characters in the series, such as Harry Hill and Fred Scuttle.

Written by Benny Hill

Produced by John Brown

Benny Hill Time is available here https://bbc.in/2MifIYP

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3398falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/45-back-to-life--18159980
Back To Life follows Miranda 'Miri' Thomas, a woman who committed a terrible crime many years ago.

It was a catastrophic mistake, one she paid for with well over a decade in prison.
When we meet her, she has just returned to her family home, aged 36, with no job, no friends and no choice but to move back in with her parents.

Miri is desperate to move on, put the past behind her and get back to her life; but, in a small-town where her crime is the most dramatic thing that has ever happened, will anyone let her?

Written by Daisy Haggard and Laura Solon

Produced by Debbie Pisani

Directed by Christopher Sweeney

A Two Brothers Pictures for BBC.

Back To Life is available to watch here https://bbc.in/2MifIYP

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18159980Mon, 03 Jun 2019 19:19:03 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Back To Life (Series 1 Episode 1) Back To Life follows Miranda 'Miri' Thomas, a woman who committed a terrible crime many years ago. It was a catastrophic mistake, one she paid for with well over a decade in prison. When...
Back To Life follows Miranda 'Miri' Thomas, a woman who committed a terrible crime many years ago.

It was a catastrophic mistake, one she paid for with well over a decade in prison.
When we meet her, she has just returned to her family home, aged 36, with no job, no friends and no choice but to move back in with her parents.

Miri is desperate to move on, put the past behind her and get back to her life; but, in a small-town where her crime is the most dramatic thing that has ever happened, will anyone let her?

Written by Daisy Haggard and Laura Solon

Produced by Debbie Pisani

Directed by Christopher Sweeney

A Two Brothers Pictures for BBC.

Back To Life is available to watch here https://bbc.in/2MifIYP

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3234falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/44-mum--18091621
`Mum' is a critically well-received family sitcom by the hands of BAFTA Award-winning writer Stefan Golaszewski.

The story follows lead character suburban mum Cathy, portrayed by Olivier Award-winning Lesley Manville, as she mourns her husband's death and tries to move on in the years that follow, starting with the funeral in January and ending on New Year's Eve.

Each episode in the earlier series revolves around a month in which Cathy attempts to rebuild her life, surrounded by her sometimes problematic family and friends.

The series features Cathy’s supportive lifelong friend Michael (played by Peter Mullan), and her family: son Jason and his girlfriend Kelly, Cathy's brother Derek and his new partner Pauline and Cathy's in-laws.

Written by Stefan Golaszewski

Produced by Lyndsay Robinson, Jennie Fava and Georgie Fallon

Directed by Richard Laxton and Stefan Golaszewski

A Big Talk Production in association with The Money Men for BBC.

Mum is available to watch here https://bbc.in/30JrHBC

Mum is available to buy here https://amzn.to/2JYi2S1

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18091621Mon, 27 May 2019 19:02:15 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Mum (Series 3 Episode 1) `Mum' is a critically well-received family sitcom by the hands of BAFTA Award-winning writer Stefan Golaszewski. The story follows lead character suburban mum Cathy, portrayed by Olivier...
`Mum' is a critically well-received family sitcom by the hands of BAFTA Award-winning writer Stefan Golaszewski.

The story follows lead character suburban mum Cathy, portrayed by Olivier Award-winning Lesley Manville, as she mourns her husband's death and tries to move on in the years that follow, starting with the funeral in January and ending on New Year's Eve.

Each episode in the earlier series revolves around a month in which Cathy attempts to rebuild her life, surrounded by her sometimes problematic family and friends.

The series features Cathy’s supportive lifelong friend Michael (played by Peter Mullan), and her family: son Jason and his girlfriend Kelly, Cathy's brother Derek and his new partner Pauline and Cathy's in-laws.

Written by Stefan Golaszewski

Produced by Lyndsay Robinson, Jennie Fava and Georgie Fallon

Directed by Richard Laxton and Stefan Golaszewski

A Big Talk Production in association with The Money Men for BBC.

Mum is available to watch here https://bbc.in/30JrHBC

Mum is available to buy here https://amzn.to/2JYi2S1

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3274falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/43-ghosts--18017812
The crumbling country pile of Button Hall is home to numerous restless spirits who have died there over the centuries - each ghost very much a product of their time, resigned to squabbling with each other for eternity over the most inane of daily gripes.

But their lives - or, rather, afterlives - are thrown into turmoil when a young urban couple - Alison and Mike - surprisingly inherit the peaceful derelict house and make plans to turn it into a bustling family hotel.

As the ghosts attempt to oust the newcomers from their home, and Mike and Alison discover the true scale of the project they've taken on, fate conspires to trap both sides in an impossible house share, where every day is, literally, a matter of life and death.

Written by Mathew Baynton, Martha Howe-Douglas, Jim Howick, Laurence Rickard and Ben Willbond

Produced By Matthew Mulot.

A Monumental TV Production in association with Them There for BBC.

Ghosts is available to watch here https://bbc.in/2WNLUnx

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18017812Mon, 20 May 2019 17:13:09 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Ghosts (Series 1 Episode 1) The crumbling country pile of Button Hall is home to numerous restless spirits who have died there over the centuries - each ghost very much a product of their time, resigned to squabbling with each...
The crumbling country pile of Button Hall is home to numerous restless spirits who have died there over the centuries - each ghost very much a product of their time, resigned to squabbling with each other for eternity over the most inane of daily gripes.

But their lives - or, rather, afterlives - are thrown into turmoil when a young urban couple - Alison and Mike - surprisingly inherit the peaceful derelict house and make plans to turn it into a bustling family hotel.

As the ghosts attempt to oust the newcomers from their home, and Mike and Alison discover the true scale of the project they've taken on, fate conspires to trap both sides in an impossible house share, where every day is, literally, a matter of life and death.

Written by Mathew Baynton, Martha Howe-Douglas, Jim Howick, Laurence Rickard and Ben Willbond

Produced By Matthew Mulot.

A Monumental TV Production in association with Them There for BBC.

Ghosts is available to watch here https://bbc.in/2WNLUnx

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3227falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/42-inside-no-9--17915730
Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith follow up the multi-award-winning Psychoville with an anthology of tales of the genuinely unexpected.

What goes on behind closed doors on the street where you live? Each series of Inside No. 9 invites viewers into six very different No. 9s, where the ordinary and mundane rub shoulders with the extraordinary and macabre.

From a grand country house to a séance in a Victorian villa, and a blood-soaked actor's dressing room in London's West End to a 17th century village witch trial; these unpredictable tales feature high comedy and claustrophobic horror, where the ordinary and mundane rub shoulders with the extraordinary and macabre.

The locations in Series 2 include a sleeping-car on a French train, and a grand Victorian villa where a séance is taking place. There's also a 17th century village witch trial, and a volunteer call centre.

Series 3 themes included a crossword puzzle, a shoe, a karaoke booth and an art gallery, whilst episodes in Series 4 played with time, memories, iambic pentameter and more.

To mark Halloween in 2018, the duo created and starred in an episode broadcast live.

Written by Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith.

Produced By Adam Tandy.

A BBC Comedy Production.

Inside No.9 is available here https://bbc.in/2Mdv3pw

And available to buy at https://bit.ly/2V7now1

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17915730Mon, 13 May 2019 16:25:25 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Inside No.9 (Series 2 Episode 2) Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith follow up the multi-award-winning Psychoville with an anthology of tales of the genuinely unexpected. What goes on behind closed doors on the street...
Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith follow up the multi-award-winning Psychoville with an anthology of tales of the genuinely unexpected.

What goes on behind closed doors on the street where you live? Each series of Inside No. 9 invites viewers into six very different No. 9s, where the ordinary and mundane rub shoulders with the extraordinary and macabre.

From a grand country house to a séance in a Victorian villa, and a blood-soaked actor's dressing room in London's West End to a 17th century village witch trial; these unpredictable tales feature high comedy and claustrophobic horror, where the ordinary and mundane rub shoulders with the extraordinary and macabre.

The locations in Series 2 include a sleeping-car on a French train, and a grand Victorian villa where a séance is taking place. There's also a 17th century village witch trial, and a volunteer call centre.

Series 3 themes included a crossword puzzle, a shoe, a karaoke booth and an art gallery, whilst episodes in Series 4 played with time, memories, iambic pentameter and more.

To mark Halloween in 2018, the duo created and starred in an episode broadcast live.

Written by Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith.

Produced By Adam Tandy.

A BBC Comedy Production.

Inside No.9 is available here https://bbc.in/2Mdv3pw

And available to buy at https://bit.ly/2V7now1

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3382falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/41-this-country--17780887
This Country is a British mockumentary sitcom, first broadcast in the United Kingdom on BBC Three on 8 February 2017.

Created, written by and starring siblings Daisy May Cooper and Charlie Cooper, the programme is about the day-to-day lives of two young people living in a small village in the Cotswolds.

The programme centres on themes of social clumsiness, the trivialities of human behaviour, the eccentricities of living in rural England, and the boredom and social isolation of young people in small communities.

Following rave reviews and over four million iPlayer requests, on 18 July 2017 the BBC renewed the programme for a second series, the first episode of which released on 26 February 2018.

On 20 April 2018, the BBC renewed the programme for a third series, as well as a 40-minute one-off special.

The Coopers play the central characters, cousins Kerry and Lee "Kurtan" Mucklowe.

Their father, Paul Cooper, plays Kerry's father Martin Mucklowe, while their uncle, Trevor Cooper, plays local man and antagonist Len Clifton.

Although credited as "Ivy Woodcock", the voice of Sue Mucklowe, Kerry's mother who is never seen on screen is provided by Daisy May Cooper.

Written by Daisy & Charlie Cooper.

Produced By Simon Mayhew-Archer.

A BBC Studios Production.

This Country is available here https://bbc.in/2BEdoTg

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17780887Mon, 29 Apr 2019 18:32:55 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - This Country (Series 1 Episode 1) This Country is a British mockumentary sitcom, first broadcast in the United Kingdom on BBC Three on 8 February 2017. Created, written by and starring siblings Daisy May Cooper and Charlie...
This Country is a British mockumentary sitcom, first broadcast in the United Kingdom on BBC Three on 8 February 2017.

Created, written by and starring siblings Daisy May Cooper and Charlie Cooper, the programme is about the day-to-day lives of two young people living in a small village in the Cotswolds.

The programme centres on themes of social clumsiness, the trivialities of human behaviour, the eccentricities of living in rural England, and the boredom and social isolation of young people in small communities.

Following rave reviews and over four million iPlayer requests, on 18 July 2017 the BBC renewed the programme for a second series, the first episode of which released on 26 February 2018.

On 20 April 2018, the BBC renewed the programme for a third series, as well as a 40-minute one-off special.

The Coopers play the central characters, cousins Kerry and Lee "Kurtan" Mucklowe.

Their father, Paul Cooper, plays Kerry's father Martin Mucklowe, while their uncle, Trevor Cooper, plays local man and antagonist Len Clifton.

Although credited as "Ivy Woodcock", the voice of Sue Mucklowe, Kerry's mother who is never seen on screen is provided by Daisy May Cooper.

Written by Daisy & Charlie Cooper.

Produced By Simon Mayhew-Archer.

A BBC Studios Production.

This Country is available here https://bbc.in/2BEdoTg

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2928falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/40-meet-david-sedaris--17714796
American humourist David Sedaris reads from his extensive collection of comedy essays for a live Radio 4 audience.

With sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, David Sedaris has become one of America's pre-eminent humour writers.

The great skill with which he slices through cultural euphemisms and political correctness proves that he is a master of satire and one of the most observant writers addressing the human condition today.

David Sedaris's first book, Barrel Fever (1994), which included The SantaLand Diaries, was a critical and commercial success, as were his follow-up efforts, Naked (1997), Holidays on Ice (1997) and Me Talk Pretty One Day (2000). He became known for his bitingly funny recollections of his youth, family life and travels, making semi-celebrities out of his parents and siblings.

David Sedaris has been nominated for three Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word and Best Comedy Album.

A feature film adaptation of his story C.O.G. was released after a premier at the Sundance Film Festival (2013).

He has been a contributor to BBC Radio 4 since 1996.

Written by David Sedaris.

Produced By Steve Doherty.

A Giddy Goat Production for BBC radio 4.

Meet David Sedaris is available here https://bbc.in/2vc6C4d

More from David Sedaris here https://www.davidsedarisbooks.com

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17714796Mon, 22 Apr 2019 18:05:14 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Meet David Sedaris (Series 7 Episode 2) American humourist David Sedaris reads from his extensive collection of comedy essays for a live Radio 4 audience. With sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, David Sedaris has...
American humourist David Sedaris reads from his extensive collection of comedy essays for a live Radio 4 audience.

With sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, David Sedaris has become one of America's pre-eminent humour writers.

The great skill with which he slices through cultural euphemisms and political correctness proves that he is a master of satire and one of the most observant writers addressing the human condition today.

David Sedaris's first book, Barrel Fever (1994), which included The SantaLand Diaries, was a critical and commercial success, as were his follow-up efforts, Naked (1997), Holidays on Ice (1997) and Me Talk Pretty One Day (2000). He became known for his bitingly funny recollections of his youth, family life and travels, making semi-celebrities out of his parents and siblings.

David Sedaris has been nominated for three Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word and Best Comedy Album.

A feature film adaptation of his story C.O.G. was released after a premier at the Sundance Film Festival (2013).

He has been a contributor to BBC Radio 4 since 1996.

Written by David Sedaris.

Produced By Steve Doherty.

A Giddy Goat Production for BBC radio 4.

Meet David Sedaris is available here https://bbc.in/2vc6C4d

More from David Sedaris here https://www.davidsedarisbooks.com

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2955falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/39-my-first-planet--17649785
My First Planet is an audience sitcom set on a newly-founded space colony.

Unfortunately, the leader of the colony died on the voyage, so his Number 2, Brian (Nicholas Lyndhurst) is now in charge.

Brian's a nice enough chap, but no alpha male, and his desire to sort things out with a nice friendly meeting infuriates the colony's Senior Medical Officer Lillian, who'd really rather everyone was walking round in tight colour-coded tunics and saluting each other.

She's also in charge of Project Adam, the plan to conceive and give birth to the first colony-born baby. Unfortunately, the two people hand-picked for this purpose - Carol and Richard - were rather fibbing about being a couple, just to get on the trip.

Add in an entirely unscrupulous Chief Scientist, Mason and Archer, an idiot maintenance man who believes he's an "empath" rather than a plumber, and you're all set to answer the question - if humankind were to colonise space, is it destined to succumb to self-interest, prejudice and infighting?

(The answer is yes, by the way. Sorry.)

Written by Phil Whelans.

Produced By David Tyler.

A Pozzitive Production for BBC radio 4.

My First Planet is available to buy at https://amzn.to/2X3ZSBn

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17649785Mon, 15 Apr 2019 19:27:33 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - My First Planet (Series 1 Episode 1) My First Planet is an audience sitcom set on a newly-founded space colony. Unfortunately, the leader of the colony died on the voyage, so his Number 2, Brian (Nicholas Lyndhurst) is now...
My First Planet is an audience sitcom set on a newly-founded space colony.

Unfortunately, the leader of the colony died on the voyage, so his Number 2, Brian (Nicholas Lyndhurst) is now in charge.

Brian's a nice enough chap, but no alpha male, and his desire to sort things out with a nice friendly meeting infuriates the colony's Senior Medical Officer Lillian, who'd really rather everyone was walking round in tight colour-coded tunics and saluting each other.

She's also in charge of Project Adam, the plan to conceive and give birth to the first colony-born baby. Unfortunately, the two people hand-picked for this purpose - Carol and Richard - were rather fibbing about being a couple, just to get on the trip.

Add in an entirely unscrupulous Chief Scientist, Mason and Archer, an idiot maintenance man who believes he's an "empath" rather than a plumber, and you're all set to answer the question - if humankind were to colonise space, is it destined to succumb to self-interest, prejudice and infighting?

(The answer is yes, by the way. Sorry.)

Written by Phil Whelans.

Produced By David Tyler.

A Pozzitive Production for BBC radio 4.

My First Planet is available to buy at https://amzn.to/2X3ZSBn

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3239falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/38-terry-alderton-more-crazy-now--17562208
The prolific, uncensored and self-assured Terry Alderton embarks on a four part series where he plays every character and sings every crazy song.

‘Terry Alderton’s All Crazy Now’ is not so much a radio show, but a piece of evidence against him, or possibly cathartic repugnance from years of frustration and self censorship.

‘All Crazy Now’ is unique – if Kenny Everett and Spike Milligan got together they would be making a show like this. It’s a one man Goon Show not to be missed.

Terry plays all the characters himself – every single voice you hear is him – from dancing bears, Akil Chowdry, Morgan the Freeman, his inner voices, Victor, a sketch which is about a mother and something to do with Monkey Fights. Oh, and there’s songs – songs about pole vaulting chickens, sausages, cornflakes and keeping your dreams alive….

His extensive TV credits include ‘The Royal Variety Performance’ (ITV1), Live At The Apollo‘ (BBC One) ‘Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Road Show’ (BBC One), ‘Edinburgh Comedy Fest Live’ (BBC Three), Dave’s ‘One Night Stand’ and ‘Let’s Dance for Sport Relief’ and that show set in London. 

Film credits include ‘The Flirting Club’, ‘Keeping Mum’, ‘Black Ball’ and ‘The Jam’.

Terry is the man behind online sensations ‘Danny Dire’ and ‘Bloke Cast’ and short film ‘Brahms and Liszt’.

Written by Terry Alderton.

Produced By Richard Melvin

A Dabster Production for the BBC.

Find out more about Terry at http://www.terryalderton.com

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17562208Mon, 08 Apr 2019 19:11:36 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Terry Alderton - More Crazy Now (Series 2 Episode 4) The prolific, uncensored and self-assured Terry Alderton embarks on a four part series where he plays every character and sings every crazy song. ‘Terry Alderton’s All...
The prolific, uncensored and self-assured Terry Alderton embarks on a four part series where he plays every character and sings every crazy song.

‘Terry Alderton’s All Crazy Now’ is not so much a radio show, but a piece of evidence against him, or possibly cathartic repugnance from years of frustration and self censorship.

‘All Crazy Now’ is unique – if Kenny Everett and Spike Milligan got together they would be making a show like this. It’s a one man Goon Show not to be missed.

Terry plays all the characters himself – every single voice you hear is him – from dancing bears, Akil Chowdry, Morgan the Freeman, his inner voices, Victor, a sketch which is about a mother and something to do with Monkey Fights. Oh, and there’s songs – songs about pole vaulting chickens, sausages, cornflakes and keeping your dreams alive….

His extensive TV credits include ‘The Royal Variety Performance’ (ITV1), Live At The Apollo‘ (BBC One) ‘Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Road Show’ (BBC One), ‘Edinburgh Comedy Fest Live’ (BBC Three), Dave’s ‘One Night Stand’ and ‘Let’s Dance for Sport Relief’ and that show set in London. 

Film credits include ‘The Flirting Club’, ‘Keeping Mum’, ‘Black Ball’ and ‘The Jam’.

Terry is the man behind online sensations ‘Danny Dire’ and ‘Bloke Cast’ and short film ‘Brahms and Liszt’.

Written by Terry Alderton.

Produced By Richard Melvin

A Dabster Production for the BBC.

Find out more about Terry at http://www.terryalderton.com

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3009falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/37-you-me-the-apocalypse--17496783
With their days numbered, a group of people struggle with the inevitable apocalypse after it is discovered that a comet is on a collision course with Earth.

Jamie Winton (Mathew Baynton) works as a bank manager in Slough, England, living with his best friend, Dave Bosley (Joel Fry), and his adoptive mother, Paula (Pauline Quirke).

Jamie vows to find his wife, Layla (Karla Crome), who disappeared seven years ago, and his biological mother before the comet hits. In one of many revelations that occurs before the comet strikes, he learns he has a twin brother named Ariel Conroy (also played by Baynton).

Meanwhile, Rhonda MacNeil (Jenna Fischer) is imprisoned in New Mexico, United States, after taking the blame for a hacking crime committed against the NSA by her son Spike (Fabian McCallum). There, she meets a white supremacist named Leanne (Megan Mullally).

In Washington, D.C., Rhonda's brother Scotty (Kyle Soller) and his husband, US General Arnold Gaines (Paterson Joseph), are working to stop the comet that will cause the apocalypse.

At the Vatican, Father Jude (Rob Lowe) and Sister Celine (Gaia Scodellaro) work to find the potential Antichrist and the world's savior.

In the end, most of these people will come to be in a bunker together under Slough as they watch the apocalypse on TV.

Created by Iain Hollands.

Produced By Polly Buckle, Nick Pitt & Susie Liggat

A Working Title Films / BigBalls Films production

It's available to buy at: https://amzn.to/2HSwA4m

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17496783Mon, 01 Apr 2019 19:10:48 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - You, Me & The Apocalypse (Series 1 Episode 1) With their days numbered, a group of people struggle with the inevitable apocalypse after it is discovered that a comet is on a collision course with Earth. Jamie Winton (Mathew...
With their days numbered, a group of people struggle with the inevitable apocalypse after it is discovered that a comet is on a collision course with Earth.

Jamie Winton (Mathew Baynton) works as a bank manager in Slough, England, living with his best friend, Dave Bosley (Joel Fry), and his adoptive mother, Paula (Pauline Quirke).

Jamie vows to find his wife, Layla (Karla Crome), who disappeared seven years ago, and his biological mother before the comet hits. In one of many revelations that occurs before the comet strikes, he learns he has a twin brother named Ariel Conroy (also played by Baynton).

Meanwhile, Rhonda MacNeil (Jenna Fischer) is imprisoned in New Mexico, United States, after taking the blame for a hacking crime committed against the NSA by her son Spike (Fabian McCallum). There, she meets a white supremacist named Leanne (Megan Mullally).

In Washington, D.C., Rhonda's brother Scotty (Kyle Soller) and his husband, US General Arnold Gaines (Paterson Joseph), are working to stop the comet that will cause the apocalypse.

At the Vatican, Father Jude (Rob Lowe) and Sister Celine (Gaia Scodellaro) work to find the potential Antichrist and the world's savior.

In the end, most of these people will come to be in a bunker together under Slough as they watch the apocalypse on TV.

Created by Iain Hollands.

Produced By Polly Buckle, Nick Pitt & Susie Liggat

A Working Title Films / BigBalls Films production

It's available to buy at: https://amzn.to/2HSwA4m

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3553falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/36-fleabag--17432040
Hilarious and hurtful, a confession of the modern woman.

Starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Olivia Colman and Bill Paterson, Fleabag is a hilarious and poignant window into the mind of a dry-witted, sexual, angry, porn-watching, grief-riddled woman trying to make sense of the world.

As she hurls herself headlong at modern living, Fleabag is thrown roughly up against the walls of contemporary London, with all its frenetic energy, late nights and bright lights, in this very modern mix of fatalism and hedonism, sustaining a merry-go-round of broken dreamers.

Unfettered and unfiltered, Fleabag tears through the series sleeping with anyone who dares to stand too close, squeezing money from any orifice, rejecting anyone who tries to help her and keeping up the bravado all along because that's just the kind of messed-up, normal person she is.

By turns hilarious and heart-breaking, this is the thoroughly disarming confessional of a woman so totally detached she's utterly lost, and ultimately wondering what the hell she ought to be doing in life. Much like the rest of us.

In this episode, Fleabag helps with an event at her sister Claire's work which inevitably ends in disaster, but an introduction to Claire's colleague proves intriguing, and a chance meeting with a stranger opens Fleabag's eyes.

Created & written by Phoebe Waller-Bridge.

Produced By Lydia Hampson & Sarah Hammond.

A Two Brothers Pictures Limited Production for the BBC.

Fleabag is available to watch at: https://bbc.in/2Ygl5K7

And is available to buy at: https://bit.ly/2FrwQWp

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17432040Mon, 25 Mar 2019 20:14:19 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Fleabag (Series 2 Episode 3) Hilarious and hurtful, a confession of the modern woman. Starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Olivia Colman and Bill Paterson, Fleabag is a hilarious and poignant window into the mind of a dry-witted,...
Hilarious and hurtful, a confession of the modern woman.

Starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Olivia Colman and Bill Paterson, Fleabag is a hilarious and poignant window into the mind of a dry-witted, sexual, angry, porn-watching, grief-riddled woman trying to make sense of the world.

As she hurls herself headlong at modern living, Fleabag is thrown roughly up against the walls of contemporary London, with all its frenetic energy, late nights and bright lights, in this very modern mix of fatalism and hedonism, sustaining a merry-go-round of broken dreamers.

Unfettered and unfiltered, Fleabag tears through the series sleeping with anyone who dares to stand too close, squeezing money from any orifice, rejecting anyone who tries to help her and keeping up the bravado all along because that's just the kind of messed-up, normal person she is.

By turns hilarious and heart-breaking, this is the thoroughly disarming confessional of a woman so totally detached she's utterly lost, and ultimately wondering what the hell she ought to be doing in life. Much like the rest of us.

In this episode, Fleabag helps with an event at her sister Claire's work which inevitably ends in disaster, but an introduction to Claire's colleague proves intriguing, and a chance meeting with a stranger opens Fleabag's eyes.

Created & written by Phoebe Waller-Bridge.

Produced By Lydia Hampson & Sarah Hammond.

A Two Brothers Pictures Limited Production for the BBC.

Fleabag is available to watch at: https://bbc.in/2Ygl5K7

And is available to buy at: https://bit.ly/2FrwQWp

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2856truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/35-warren--17353524
Warren is forced to move from the south up to Preston when his partner Anne's father falls ill. He suddenly finds himself living in an area he doesn't like, doing a job he's not emotionally cut out for and looking after two teenage stepsons he never wanted.

Warren loves Anne, and somehow, Anne always sees the good in Warren, but he has a way of knowing best and speaking his mind that inevitably leads to conflict, chaos and disaster for those around him and most especially for himself.

Warren is not growing old gracefully, he's very much rooted in the now, with a modern voice and sharp edge. There are no happy endings as he grapples against the problems and misunderstandings of his own making.

Written by Jimmy Donny Cosgrove & Paul McKenna

Produced By Tom Jordan

A Hat Trick Production for the BBC.

Warren is available to watch at: https://bbc.in/2T49rD4

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17353524Mon, 18 Mar 2019 20:17:48 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Warren (Series 1 Episode 1) Warren is forced to move from the south up to Preston when his partner Anne's father falls ill. He suddenly finds himself living in an area he doesn't like, doing a job he's not emotionally cut out...
Warren is forced to move from the south up to Preston when his partner Anne's father falls ill. He suddenly finds himself living in an area he doesn't like, doing a job he's not emotionally cut out for and looking after two teenage stepsons he never wanted.

Warren loves Anne, and somehow, Anne always sees the good in Warren, but he has a way of knowing best and speaking his mind that inevitably leads to conflict, chaos and disaster for those around him and most especially for himself.

Warren is not growing old gracefully, he's very much rooted in the now, with a modern voice and sharp edge. There are no happy endings as he grapples against the problems and misunderstandings of his own making.

Written by Jimmy Donny Cosgrove & Paul McKenna

Produced By Tom Jordan

A Hat Trick Production for the BBC.

Warren is available to watch at: https://bbc.in/2T49rD4

The Comedy Slab Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3246truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/34-this-time-with-alan-partridge--17289162
Alan Partridge is handed a career lifeline - the chance to stand in (temporarily) as co-host on This Time, an evening weekday magazine show.

His first return to live television since his 90s chat show Knowing Me, Knowing You was cancelled after a guest was fatally shot on air, This Time is the perfect shop window for a man of Alan's gravitas and will, or should, see him finally recognised as one of the heavyweight broadcasters of his era.

The show itself is a heady mix of consumer affairs, current affairs, viewer interaction, highbrow interview and lightweight froth; very much the sweet spots for a man whose CV boasts over two decades of weekday local radio.

And with an array of diverse subjects on the agenda, it promises the perfect fit for a man whose broadcasting style has been described as "equidistant between chitchat and analysis".

Due to the sudden illness of its regular host, BBC One magazine show This Time welcomes Alan Partridge as its guest presenter. A chance for the consummate broadcaster to flit effortlessly between seal pups, hand washing and cyberterrorism.

Written by Steve Coogan, Neil & Rob Gibbons

Produced By Ted Dowd

Baby Cow Productions for the BBC.

This Time with Alan Partridge is available to watch at: https://bbc.in/2EeAj9a

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17289162Mon, 11 Mar 2019 15:39:26 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - This Time With Alan Partridge (Series 1 Episode 1) Alan Partridge is handed a career lifeline - the chance to stand in (temporarily) as co-host on This Time, an evening weekday magazine show. His first return to live...
Alan Partridge is handed a career lifeline - the chance to stand in (temporarily) as co-host on This Time, an evening weekday magazine show.

His first return to live television since his 90s chat show Knowing Me, Knowing You was cancelled after a guest was fatally shot on air, This Time is the perfect shop window for a man of Alan's gravitas and will, or should, see him finally recognised as one of the heavyweight broadcasters of his era.

The show itself is a heady mix of consumer affairs, current affairs, viewer interaction, highbrow interview and lightweight froth; very much the sweet spots for a man whose CV boasts over two decades of weekday local radio.

And with an array of diverse subjects on the agenda, it promises the perfect fit for a man whose broadcasting style has been described as "equidistant between chitchat and analysis".

Due to the sudden illness of its regular host, BBC One magazine show This Time welcomes Alan Partridge as its guest presenter. A chance for the consummate broadcaster to flit effortlessly between seal pups, hand washing and cyberterrorism.

Written by Steve Coogan, Neil & Rob Gibbons

Produced By Ted Dowd

Baby Cow Productions for the BBC.

This Time with Alan Partridge is available to watch at: https://bbc.in/2EeAj9a

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3142falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/33-friday-night-dinner--17218290
Friday Night Dinner depicts Shabbat dinner in the middle-class secular Jewish Goodman family, reflecting writer and producer Robert Popper's own secular Jewish upbringing
Every Friday night, twenty-something brothers Adam and Jonny Goodman return to their parents' home for dinner.
Adam and Jonny think of the weekly event as a necessary annoyance, - necessary because they get fed, and annoying because, well, they have to spend the evening with Mum and Dad. It's not that Mum and Dad aren't wonderful. They really are. But Dad slugs ketchup straight from the bottle, Mum is obsessed with Masterchef and even Grandma likes to wear her new bikini around the house.
As for the next generation, there is much consternation that Jonny's girlfriend, Alison, is nothing less than 'made-up' and not even the Internet can sort out a "female" for Adam. Maybe this is because Adam writes jingles for toilet roll adverts, and Jonny's favourite party trick is to jump out of bin-liners onto unsuspecting victims. Of course every family has its foibles, its rituals and its eccentricities. It's just that the Goodmans have made something of an art form of theirs...

Written & Created by Robert Popper

Produced By Robert Popper

A Popper Pictures / Big Talk Production for Channel 4.

Friday Night Dinner is available to watch at: https://bit.ly/2OtBkBc

And available to buy at: https://bit.ly/2EEXTxm

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17218290Mon, 04 Mar 2019 21:31:39 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Friday Night Dinner (Series 1 Episode 1) Friday Night Dinner depicts Shabbat dinner in the middle-class secular Jewish Goodman family, reflecting writer and producer Robert Popper's own secular Jewish upbringing Every Friday...
Friday Night Dinner depicts Shabbat dinner in the middle-class secular Jewish Goodman family, reflecting writer and producer Robert Popper's own secular Jewish upbringing
Every Friday night, twenty-something brothers Adam and Jonny Goodman return to their parents' home for dinner.
Adam and Jonny think of the weekly event as a necessary annoyance, - necessary because they get fed, and annoying because, well, they have to spend the evening with Mum and Dad. It's not that Mum and Dad aren't wonderful. They really are. But Dad slugs ketchup straight from the bottle, Mum is obsessed with Masterchef and even Grandma likes to wear her new bikini around the house.
As for the next generation, there is much consternation that Jonny's girlfriend, Alison, is nothing less than 'made-up' and not even the Internet can sort out a "female" for Adam. Maybe this is because Adam writes jingles for toilet roll adverts, and Jonny's favourite party trick is to jump out of bin-liners onto unsuspecting victims. Of course every family has its foibles, its rituals and its eccentricities. It's just that the Goodmans have made something of an art form of theirs...

Written & Created by Robert Popper

Produced By Robert Popper

A Popper Pictures / Big Talk Production for Channel 4.

Friday Night Dinner is available to watch at: https://bit.ly/2OtBkBc

And available to buy at: https://bit.ly/2EEXTxm

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2982falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/32-better-things--17139895
`Better Things' is the story of Sam Fox, a single mother and working actor with no filter trying to raise her three daughters, Max, Frankie, and Duke in Los Angeles.
She also looks out for her mother, Phil, an English ex-patriate with questionable faculties who lives across the street.
Whether she's struggling to keep her daughters close or trying to push one of them out of the nest, Sam approaches every challenge with fierce love, raw honesty, and humour.
At the end of the day, Sam's just trying to earn a living, navigate her daughters' changing lives, survive her family, have fun with a friend or two, and also, just maybe, squeeze in some private time.

Created by Pamela Adlon & Louis CK

Produced By Joanne Toll

A Pig Newton, Slam Book, 3 Arts Entertainment production

Better Things is available to watch at: https://bbc.in/2B4UhlJ

And available to buy at: https://bit.ly/2EqdznL

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17139895Mon, 25 Feb 2019 15:58:53 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Better Things (Series 1 Episode 1) `Better Things' is the story of Sam Fox, a single mother and working actor with no filter trying to raise her three daughters, Max, Frankie, and Duke in Los Angeles. She also looks out for...
`Better Things' is the story of Sam Fox, a single mother and working actor with no filter trying to raise her three daughters, Max, Frankie, and Duke in Los Angeles.
She also looks out for her mother, Phil, an English ex-patriate with questionable faculties who lives across the street.
Whether she's struggling to keep her daughters close or trying to push one of them out of the nest, Sam approaches every challenge with fierce love, raw honesty, and humour.
At the end of the day, Sam's just trying to earn a living, navigate her daughters' changing lives, survive her family, have fun with a friend or two, and also, just maybe, squeeze in some private time.

Created by Pamela Adlon & Louis CK

Produced By Joanne Toll

A Pig Newton, Slam Book, 3 Arts Entertainment production

Better Things is available to watch at: https://bbc.in/2B4UhlJ

And available to buy at: https://bit.ly/2EqdznL

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3306falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/31-lee-dean--17069143
Introducing builders Lee and Dean - brothers from other mothers. Since school they've been inseparable... until Lee meets Nikki. For the first time Lee seems smitten, and Dean's nose is put out of joint when she moves into their flat and takes over organising Lee's birthday party.
Lee has also been enjoying 'builder's perks' with posh client Mrs. Bryce-D'Souza, who sees their dalliances as more than client aftercare. When Mrs. Bryce-D'Souza turns up at Lee's birthday party unannounced, Lee is terrified that she'll tell Nikki what's been going on... until Dean steps in to save the day. And when Dean's dad Terry mishears a drunken conversation, he unknowingly forces Lee and Nikki to commit to each other
publicly.

Written by Miles Chapman, Mark O'Sullivan, Sam Underwood

Produced By Mark O'Sullivan & Miles Chapman

A Bingo Production for Channel 4

Lee & Dean is available to watch at: https://bit.ly/2SxuygB
And available to buy at: https://amzn.to/2N617wj

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17069143Mon, 18 Feb 2019 20:23:52 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Lee & Dean (Series 1 Episode 1) Introducing builders Lee and Dean - brothers from other mothers. Since school they've been inseparable... until Lee meets Nikki. For the first time Lee seems smitten, and Dean's nose is put out...
Introducing builders Lee and Dean - brothers from other mothers. Since school they've been inseparable... until Lee meets Nikki. For the first time Lee seems smitten, and Dean's nose is put out of joint when she moves into their flat and takes over organising Lee's birthday party.
Lee has also been enjoying 'builder's perks' with posh client Mrs. Bryce-D'Souza, who sees their dalliances as more than client aftercare. When Mrs. Bryce-D'Souza turns up at Lee's birthday party unannounced, Lee is terrified that she'll tell Nikki what's been going on... until Dean steps in to save the day. And when Dean's dad Terry mishears a drunken conversation, he unknowingly forces Lee and Nikki to commit to each other
publicly.

Written by Miles Chapman, Mark O'Sullivan, Sam Underwood

Produced By Mark O'Sullivan & Miles Chapman

A Bingo Production for Channel 4

Lee & Dean is available to watch at: https://bit.ly/2SxuygB
And available to buy at: https://amzn.to/2N617wj

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2913falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/30-bleak-expectations--17009546
A radio comedy which has been aptly described as "a gloriously daft Victorian romp in the style of Charles Dickens after too much gin."

In this series, Pip Bin is beginning to miss the conflict with his absent evil nemesis Mr Gently Benevolent, when he receives an intriguing invitation to a house party with Britain's poshest man. Pip, Gently and Co visit India, Antarctica and other interesting locations.

In this episode, The Victorian comedy adventure sees Pip and his friends travel to India in their quest to thwart the evil machinations of smooth but sinister genius Mr Gently Benevolent.
Gasp as our heroes struggle with super-intelligent tigers, giant snakes, and secret gin!

Starring Tom Allen, Anthony Head, Richard Johnson, James Bachman, Susy Kane, Sarah Hadland and Geoffrey Whitehead.

Written By Mark Evans

Produced By Gareth Edwards

A BBC Radio Production

Bleak Expectations is available to listen to online at: https://bbc.in/2SoOW2Q
And can be bought on iTunes.

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17009546Mon, 11 Feb 2019 17:01:01 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Bleak Expectations (Series 5 Episode 2) A radio comedy which has been aptly described as "a gloriously daft Victorian romp in the style of Charles Dickens after too much gin." In this series, Pip Bin is beginning to miss...
A radio comedy which has been aptly described as "a gloriously daft Victorian romp in the style of Charles Dickens after too much gin."

In this series, Pip Bin is beginning to miss the conflict with his absent evil nemesis Mr Gently Benevolent, when he receives an intriguing invitation to a house party with Britain's poshest man. Pip, Gently and Co visit India, Antarctica and other interesting locations.

In this episode, The Victorian comedy adventure sees Pip and his friends travel to India in their quest to thwart the evil machinations of smooth but sinister genius Mr Gently Benevolent.
Gasp as our heroes struggle with super-intelligent tigers, giant snakes, and secret gin!

Starring Tom Allen, Anthony Head, Richard Johnson, James Bachman, Susy Kane, Sarah Hadland and Geoffrey Whitehead.

Written By Mark Evans

Produced By Gareth Edwards

A BBC Radio Production

Bleak Expectations is available to listen to online at: https://bbc.in/2SoOW2Q
And can be bought on iTunes.

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2923falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/29-semi-detached--16945460
Real-time sitcom following the hapless Stuart as he struggles through the worst half an hour of his life.
When his new girlfriend April goes into labour, Stuart quickly finds himself having to rely on his ex-wife Kate to get her to hospital. As Stuart thinks he's getting a handle on the situation, he is forced to deal with a sexually promiscuous father, a daughter with a newly-shaved head and the surprise return of his errant brother, who is on the run from some very unsavoury types.
And that's before Stuart has to enlist the help of one tipsy neighbour to help with another neighbour, who he finds naked and the victim of a DIY circular saw accident.

Written by David Crow & Oliver Maltman

Produced by Julie McKenzie

Starring Lee Mack, Ellie White, Samantha Spiro, Clive Russell, Sarah Hoare, Neil Fitzmaurice, Geoffrey McGivern, Patrick Baladi 

Happy Tramp Productions / BBC

Semi Detached is available online at - https://bbc.in/2Befhqt

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16945460Mon, 04 Feb 2019 21:23:18 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Semi Detached (Pilot) Real-time sitcom following the hapless Stuart as he struggles through the worst half an hour of his life. When his new girlfriend April goes into labour, Stuart quickly finds himself having to rely on...
Real-time sitcom following the hapless Stuart as he struggles through the worst half an hour of his life.
When his new girlfriend April goes into labour, Stuart quickly finds himself having to rely on his ex-wife Kate to get her to hospital. As Stuart thinks he's getting a handle on the situation, he is forced to deal with a sexually promiscuous father, a daughter with a newly-shaved head and the surprise return of his errant brother, who is on the run from some very unsavoury types.
And that's before Stuart has to enlist the help of one tipsy neighbour to help with another neighbour, who he finds naked and the victim of a DIY circular saw accident.

Written by David Crow & Oliver Maltman

Produced by Julie McKenzie

Starring Lee Mack, Ellie White, Samantha Spiro, Clive Russell, Sarah Hoare, Neil Fitzmaurice, Geoffrey McGivern, Patrick Baladi 

Happy Tramp Productions / BBC

Semi Detached is available online at - https://bbc.in/2Befhqt

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3422falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/28-party--16862953
Based on the award-winning play from the 2009 Edinburgh Festival, Party is written by Edinburgh Comedy Award winner and Cowards member, Tom Basden. It explores what happens when a group of people try and change the world.
Four young idealists have decided to form a new political party to save the world from itself. The new fifth member, Duncan, sets about saving the world from them.
A suburban garden shed is the setting, as the adolescent adults debate forming their own political party. From the perils of electing a leader and choosing a party name through to the finer intricacies of Foreign and Environmental policy, this comedy satirises the ambitions, hypocrisy and naivety of those who choose to try to change the world.
Party is about small minds tackling big issues - China, sex trafficking, cycle lanes, unfair trade coffee, whether to call the party 'The Friendly Party' or 'Gladios', and when, exactly, they should break to eat a cake.

Written by Tom Basden

Produced by Julie McKenzie

Starring Tom Basden, Tim Key, Jonny Sweet, Anna Crilly and Katy Wix

A BBC Radio Production

Party is available online at - http://bit.do/eGEoe

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16862953Mon, 28 Jan 2019 15:14:35 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Party - Series 1 Episode 4 Based on the award-winning play from the 2009 Edinburgh Festival, Party is written by Edinburgh Comedy Award winner and Cowards member, Tom Basden. It explores what happens when a group of people try...
Based on the award-winning play from the 2009 Edinburgh Festival, Party is written by Edinburgh Comedy Award winner and Cowards member, Tom Basden. It explores what happens when a group of people try and change the world.
Four young idealists have decided to form a new political party to save the world from itself. The new fifth member, Duncan, sets about saving the world from them.
A suburban garden shed is the setting, as the adolescent adults debate forming their own political party. From the perils of electing a leader and choosing a party name through to the finer intricacies of Foreign and Environmental policy, this comedy satirises the ambitions, hypocrisy and naivety of those who choose to try to change the world.
Party is about small minds tackling big issues - China, sex trafficking, cycle lanes, unfair trade coffee, whether to call the party 'The Friendly Party' or 'Gladios', and when, exactly, they should break to eat a cake.

Written by Tom Basden

Produced by Julie McKenzie

Starring Tom Basden, Tim Key, Jonny Sweet, Anna Crilly and Katy Wix

A BBC Radio Production

Party is available online at - http://bit.do/eGEoe

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2902falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/27-ideal--16770909
Ideal is a BBC Three sitcom written by Graham Duff and centres around Moz, a small-time drug dealer and his varied regular clients.
Moz (Johnny Vegas) has no ambitions beyond spending a quiet life dealing cannabis to a small group of friends and acquaintances and the action takes place in and around his flat - number 20.
We get an insight into Moz's world, his oddball clients and his long term girlfriend, Nicki, who is about to give birth, even though there seems to be a question mark over the father - it could be any one of three men.
Moz's days as a dealer could be under threat as the local copper, PC (Tom Goodman-Hill) who is Moz's best mate, is in line for a promotion. If he get's the new job it might mean that Moz's cannabis supply would dry up as it currently comes from police raids.
Written by Graham Duff

Produced by Ted Dowd

Directed by Dan Zeff

A Baby Cow Production

Ideal is available to buy online at - http://tiny.cc/igwh2y

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16770909Mon, 21 Jan 2019 21:09:41 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Ideal - Series 2 Episode 1 Ideal is a BBC Three sitcom written by Graham Duff and centres around Moz, a small-time drug dealer and his varied regular clients. Moz (Johnny Vegas) has no ambitions beyond spending a quiet life...
Ideal is a BBC Three sitcom written by Graham Duff and centres around Moz, a small-time drug dealer and his varied regular clients.
Moz (Johnny Vegas) has no ambitions beyond spending a quiet life dealing cannabis to a small group of friends and acquaintances and the action takes place in and around his flat - number 20.
We get an insight into Moz's world, his oddball clients and his long term girlfriend, Nicki, who is about to give birth, even though there seems to be a question mark over the father - it could be any one of three men.
Moz's days as a dealer could be under threat as the local copper, PC (Tom Goodman-Hill) who is Moz's best mate, is in line for a promotion. If he get's the new job it might mean that Moz's cannabis supply would dry up as it currently comes from police raids.
Written by Graham Duff

Produced by Ted Dowd

Directed by Dan Zeff

A Baby Cow Production

Ideal is available to buy online at - http://tiny.cc/igwh2y

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3439falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/26-alex-edelman-s-peer-group--16706905
The so-called Millennial generation has been much maligned in the press for being lazy, entitled, vain, venal, self-involved, easily offended little emperors. 

Alex Edelman thinks these criticisms are baseless.

This episode is about Alex's relationship with social media and how it has insinuated itself into his life. From the power of Twitter to the perils of Instagramming your sandwich, Alex takes a personal look at a very millennial preoccupation.

We also hear from friends of Alex - American comedians Brandon Wardell and Jak Knight, journalist Rebecca Nicholson and cultural commentator David Burstein.

Written by Alex Edelman

Produced by Sam Michell

A BBC Studios Production

Alex Edelman's Peer Group is available online at - https://bbc.in/2RkUWtF

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16706905Mon, 14 Jan 2019 12:53:01 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Alex Edelman's Peer Group - Series 2 Personal The so-called Millennial generation has been much maligned in the press for being lazy, entitled, vain, venal, self-involved, easily offended little emperors.  Alex...
The so-called Millennial generation has been much maligned in the press for being lazy, entitled, vain, venal, self-involved, easily offended little emperors. 

Alex Edelman thinks these criticisms are baseless.

This episode is about Alex's relationship with social media and how it has insinuated itself into his life. From the power of Twitter to the perils of Instagramming your sandwich, Alex takes a personal look at a very millennial preoccupation.

We also hear from friends of Alex - American comedians Brandon Wardell and Jak Knight, journalist Rebecca Nicholson and cultural commentator David Burstein.

Written by Alex Edelman

Produced by Sam Michell

A BBC Studios Production

Alex Edelman's Peer Group is available online at - https://bbc.in/2RkUWtF

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3383falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/25-pls-like--16646862
A mockumentary about a cynical YouTuber.
Pls Like is a weekly series follows struggling comedian Liam who, as an unlikely competition victor, must undertake a series of challenges in order to win a £10,000 prize.
With the help of established YouTubers Charlie South and Millipede, as well as Talent Manager James Wirm, Liam must undertake a series of challenges to see if he has what it takes to become the next big vlogger.
Series 2 sees Liam delving deeper into the increasingly strange and worrying world of vloggers. He revisits talent manager James Wirm who, after a particularly turbulent year, is at the forefront of attempts to restore the reputation of YouTubers - and salvage his business - with 'The Likeys', his newly created awards celebrating the positive role YouTubers play in the world.

Created by Olly Cambridge

Written by Liam Williams

Produced by Rupert Majendie. Directed by Tom Kingsley

Left Bank Pictures Production

Pls Like is available online at - https://bbc.in/2ToXxzi

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16646862Mon, 07 Jan 2019 20:09:09 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Pls Like Series 1 Episodes 1 & 2 A mockumentary about a cynical YouTuber. Pls Like is a weekly series follows struggling comedian Liam who, as an unlikely competition victor, must undertake a series of challenges in order to win...
A mockumentary about a cynical YouTuber.
Pls Like is a weekly series follows struggling comedian Liam who, as an unlikely competition victor, must undertake a series of challenges in order to win a £10,000 prize.
With the help of established YouTubers Charlie South and Millipede, as well as Talent Manager James Wirm, Liam must undertake a series of challenges to see if he has what it takes to become the next big vlogger.
Series 2 sees Liam delving deeper into the increasingly strange and worrying world of vloggers. He revisits talent manager James Wirm who, after a particularly turbulent year, is at the forefront of attempts to restore the reputation of YouTubers - and salvage his business - with 'The Likeys', his newly created awards celebrating the positive role YouTubers play in the world.

Created by Olly Cambridge

Written by Liam Williams

Produced by Rupert Majendie. Directed by Tom Kingsley

Left Bank Pictures Production

Pls Like is available online at - https://bbc.in/2ToXxzi

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3393falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/24-hancock-s-half-hour--16489084
Broadcast between 29th September 1959 and 29th December 1959, series six comprised 14 episodes all of which survive in the archive. 

The series was broadcast on Tuesdays at 20:00 and repeated on Sundays at 18:30.

Episode 13 was also repeated at 13:10 on Friday 29th December 1959.

With Tony Hancock, Sid James, Hugh Morton, Wilfred Babbage and Frank Partington.

Hancock has been putting money into the slate club at the Hand and Racquet pub to ensure that he has the best Christmas ever. 

But when Sid accidentally gives all of the savings to the Police Benevolent Fund collection, they face a Christmas without food.

Written by Ray Galton & Alan Simpson

Hancock's Half Hour - The Christmas Club is available on Spotify and online at - https://apple.co/2ARRrzJ

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16489084Mon, 31 Dec 2018 16:33:45 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Christmas Club Series 6 Episode 13 Broadcast between 29th September 1959 and 29th December 1959, series six comprised 14 episodes all of which survive in the archive.  The series was broadcast on Tuesdays at 20:00 and...
Broadcast between 29th September 1959 and 29th December 1959, series six comprised 14 episodes all of which survive in the archive. 

The series was broadcast on Tuesdays at 20:00 and repeated on Sundays at 18:30.

Episode 13 was also repeated at 13:10 on Friday 29th December 1959.

With Tony Hancock, Sid James, Hugh Morton, Wilfred Babbage and Frank Partington.

Hancock has been putting money into the slate club at the Hand and Racquet pub to ensure that he has the best Christmas ever. 

But when Sid accidentally gives all of the savings to the Police Benevolent Fund collection, they face a Christmas without food.

Written by Ray Galton & Alan Simpson

Hancock's Half Hour - The Christmas Club is available on Spotify and online at - https://apple.co/2ARRrzJ

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3097falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/23-zapped--16485349
Brian Weaver, an online data marketing assistant (even he doesn't know what that is) finds himself abruptly transported to a parallel world.
Fortunately, there's a pub. There he meets the owner, Herman (a former warrior) plus a handful of regulars: Barbara (a hopeless soothsayer), Steg (an armchair revolutionary) and Howell (a brain-fried Wizard).
Brian is desperate to get home, and his new acquaintances are no help at all.

Instead he finds himself being sucked into a world he doesn't understand, full of psychopathic Fairies, Shell Men, seductive Demi-Fins, vicious Throcks and the frighteningly unpredictable side-effects of Howell's magical powers.

It's even worse than being an online data marketing assistant.

Starring
James Buckley, Paul Kaye, Sharon Rooney, Kenneth Collard, Louis Emerick, Ricky Grover, Richard Sandling, Sally Phillips

Writers
Dan Gaster, Will Ing and Paul Powell

Director
Dave Lambert

Black Dog TV / Baby Cow

Zapped is available to watch online at - https://bit.ly/2AU1Bjd

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16485349Mon, 24 Dec 2018 19:31:07 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Zapped Series 2 Episode 1 Brian Weaver, an online data marketing assistant (even he doesn't know what that is) finds himself abruptly transported to a parallel world. Fortunately, there's a pub. There he meets the owner,...
Brian Weaver, an online data marketing assistant (even he doesn't know what that is) finds himself abruptly transported to a parallel world.
Fortunately, there's a pub. There he meets the owner, Herman (a former warrior) plus a handful of regulars: Barbara (a hopeless soothsayer), Steg (an armchair revolutionary) and Howell (a brain-fried Wizard).
Brian is desperate to get home, and his new acquaintances are no help at all.

Instead he finds himself being sucked into a world he doesn't understand, full of psychopathic Fairies, Shell Men, seductive Demi-Fins, vicious Throcks and the frighteningly unpredictable side-effects of Howell's magical powers.

It's even worse than being an online data marketing assistant.

Starring
James Buckley, Paul Kaye, Sharon Rooney, Kenneth Collard, Louis Emerick, Ricky Grover, Richard Sandling, Sally Phillips

Writers
Dan Gaster, Will Ing and Paul Powell

Director
Dave Lambert

Black Dog TV / Baby Cow

Zapped is available to watch online at - https://bit.ly/2AU1Bjd

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2808falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/22-geoff-norcott-right-leaning-well-meaning--16485194
Geoff Norcott is working class, had two disabled parents, votes Tory and voted Leave. How did he end up a comedian?

In this stand up show, Geoff introduces us to his family, his early career as a teacher and how he ended up on Question Time.

He has a starring role in The Mash Report on BBC 2, has done a national tour and appeared on Live at the Apollo, Edinburgh Nights, Comedy Bigmouths, and The Wright Stuff, as well as Question Time - twice. Geoff has also found himself in demand as a social commentator on Radio 4's Today programme, Daily Politics on BBC1, Victoria Derbyshire on BBC 2 and Sky News' All Out Politics.

He writes for national publications with articles appearing in The Sunday Telegraph, The Independent and The New Statesman. He writes regularly for other comedians including Sarah Millican and Katherine Ryan. Geoff was nominated for Best New Show at the Leicester Comedy Festival and an has Operational Services Medal for five frontline tours entertaining the troops in Afghanistan.
With Geoff Norcott, Leanne Everitt and Barry Castagnola.

Written by Geoff Norcott with additional material by Stephen Grant and Barry Castagnola.

Produced by Caroline Raphael. A Pier production for BBC Radio 4.

Right Leaning But Well Meaning is available online at - https://bbc.in/2QbV2TD

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16485194Tue, 18 Dec 2018 12:37:41 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Geoff Norcott - Right Leaning But Well Meaning Geoff Norcott is working class, had two disabled parents, votes Tory and voted Leave. How did he end up a comedian? In this stand up show, Geoff introduces us to his family,...
Geoff Norcott is working class, had two disabled parents, votes Tory and voted Leave. How did he end up a comedian?

In this stand up show, Geoff introduces us to his family, his early career as a teacher and how he ended up on Question Time.

He has a starring role in The Mash Report on BBC 2, has done a national tour and appeared on Live at the Apollo, Edinburgh Nights, Comedy Bigmouths, and The Wright Stuff, as well as Question Time - twice. Geoff has also found himself in demand as a social commentator on Radio 4's Today programme, Daily Politics on BBC1, Victoria Derbyshire on BBC 2 and Sky News' All Out Politics.

He writes for national publications with articles appearing in The Sunday Telegraph, The Independent and The New Statesman. He writes regularly for other comedians including Sarah Millican and Katherine Ryan. Geoff was nominated for Best New Show at the Leicester Comedy Festival and an has Operational Services Medal for five frontline tours entertaining the troops in Afghanistan.
With Geoff Norcott, Leanne Everitt and Barry Castagnola.

Written by Geoff Norcott with additional material by Stephen Grant and Barry Castagnola.

Produced by Caroline Raphael. A Pier production for BBC Radio 4.

Right Leaning But Well Meaning is available online at - https://bbc.in/2QbV2TD

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2870falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/21-the-walshes--16372583
The Walshes are a warm, tight-knit family from the West Dublin suburb of Strollinstown. But sometimes tight-knit is too much, and they're tripping over each other as the kids out-grow the family home.
Tony, head of the household, tells the sort of Dad jokes that most people would cross continents to avoid; his wife Carmel is the typical Irish Mammy, and they're parents to Ciara and Rory, both still living at home because the state of the Irish economy has forced them all back together.
Even Ciara's new boyfriend Graham is forced to move in and family friend Martin always seems to be hanging around mending bits and pieces - as well as accidentally becoming trapped in the wall cavity.
The script was developed by comedy group Diet Of Worms in collaboration with Graham Linehan. The characters are based on The Taste Of Home, a low-budget web series created by the comedy group in 2010.

Created & written by Graham Linehan & Diet Of Worms

Directed by Graham Linehan

Produced by Richard Boden

The Walshes & A Taste Of Home is available to watch online at - https://bit.ly/2FMTZoz

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16372583Mon, 03 Dec 2018 15:28:31 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - The Walshes Episode 1 The Walshes are a warm, tight-knit family from the West Dublin suburb of Strollinstown. But sometimes tight-knit is too much, and they're tripping over each other as the kids out-grow the family home....
The Walshes are a warm, tight-knit family from the West Dublin suburb of Strollinstown. But sometimes tight-knit is too much, and they're tripping over each other as the kids out-grow the family home.
Tony, head of the household, tells the sort of Dad jokes that most people would cross continents to avoid; his wife Carmel is the typical Irish Mammy, and they're parents to Ciara and Rory, both still living at home because the state of the Irish economy has forced them all back together.
Even Ciara's new boyfriend Graham is forced to move in and family friend Martin always seems to be hanging around mending bits and pieces - as well as accidentally becoming trapped in the wall cavity.
The script was developed by comedy group Diet Of Worms in collaboration with Graham Linehan. The characters are based on The Taste Of Home, a low-budget web series created by the comedy group in 2010.

Created & written by Graham Linehan & Diet Of Worms

Directed by Graham Linehan

Produced by Richard Boden

The Walshes & A Taste Of Home is available to watch online at - https://bit.ly/2FMTZoz

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3689falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/20-garth-marenghi-s-dark-place--16311470
Garth Marenghi's Darkplace is a British horror parody television series created for Channel 4 by Richard Ayoade and Matthew Holness.
The show focuses on fictional horror author Garth Marenghi (played by Holness) and his publisher Dean Learner (played by Ayoade), characters who originated in the Garth Marenghi's Fright Knight stage show.
Darkplace is presented as a lost classic: a television series produced in the 1980s, though only broadcast at the time. The presentation features commentary from many of the "original" cast, where characters such as Marenghi and Learner reflect on making the show. 
Darkplace parodies the fashion, special effects, production gaffes, and music of low-budget '80s television.
It was broadcast in a late-night timeslot, with very little advertising, and met with poor viewing figures but nonetheless built up a significant internet following, leading Channel 4 to repeat the series and produce a DVD release.
The show was later broadcast in the United States on the Sci-Fi Channel and Adult Swim.

Created & written by Richard Ayoade & Matthew Holness

Directed by Richard Ayoade

Produced by Charlie Hanson

Garth Marenghi's Darkplace is available to watch online at - https://bit.ly/2IdqyJZ

Or to buy on DVD here - https://amzn.to/2QgKa6e

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16311470Mon, 26 Nov 2018 11:58:27 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Garth Marenghi's Darkplace Episode 1 Garth Marenghi's Darkplace is a British horror parody television series created for Channel 4 by Richard Ayoade and Matthew Holness. The show focuses on fictional horror author Garth...
Garth Marenghi's Darkplace is a British horror parody television series created for Channel 4 by Richard Ayoade and Matthew Holness.
The show focuses on fictional horror author Garth Marenghi (played by Holness) and his publisher Dean Learner (played by Ayoade), characters who originated in the Garth Marenghi's Fright Knight stage show.
Darkplace is presented as a lost classic: a television series produced in the 1980s, though only broadcast at the time. The presentation features commentary from many of the "original" cast, where characters such as Marenghi and Learner reflect on making the show. 
Darkplace parodies the fashion, special effects, production gaffes, and music of low-budget '80s television.
It was broadcast in a late-night timeslot, with very little advertising, and met with poor viewing figures but nonetheless built up a significant internet following, leading Channel 4 to repeat the series and produce a DVD release.
The show was later broadcast in the United States on the Sci-Fi Channel and Adult Swim.

Created & written by Richard Ayoade & Matthew Holness

Directed by Richard Ayoade

Produced by Charlie Hanson

Garth Marenghi's Darkplace is available to watch online at - https://bit.ly/2IdqyJZ

Or to buy on DVD here - https://amzn.to/2QgKa6e

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3210falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/19-curb-your-enthusiasm--16257800
Larry David stars as an extreme fictionalized version of himself.
Like the real-life David, the character is well known in the entertainment industry as the co-creator and main co-writer of the highly successful sitcom Seinfeld.
For most of the series, the Larry David character is living a married-without-children life in Los Angeles with his wife, Cheryl (played by Cheryl Hines).
David's main confidant on the show is his manager, Jeff Greene (played by Curb executive producer Jeff Garlin), who has a temperamental and occasionally vulgar wife, Susie (Susie Essman).
A large portion of the show's many guest stars are celebrities and public figures, such as actors, comedians, sportspeople, and politicians, who play themselves.

Created by Larry David

Executive Producers Larry David & Jeff Garlin

Produced by HBO Entertainment

Curb Your Enthusiasm is available online at - https://bit.ly/2Fo38Un

Or to buy on DVD here - https://amzn.to/2qMcVcG

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16257800Mon, 19 Nov 2018 16:45:54 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Curb Your Enthusiasm Series 4 Episode 5 Larry David stars as an extreme fictionalized version of himself. Like the real-life David, the character is well known in the entertainment industry as the co-creator and main...
Larry David stars as an extreme fictionalized version of himself.
Like the real-life David, the character is well known in the entertainment industry as the co-creator and main co-writer of the highly successful sitcom Seinfeld.
For most of the series, the Larry David character is living a married-without-children life in Los Angeles with his wife, Cheryl (played by Cheryl Hines).
David's main confidant on the show is his manager, Jeff Greene (played by Curb executive producer Jeff Garlin), who has a temperamental and occasionally vulgar wife, Susie (Susie Essman).
A large portion of the show's many guest stars are celebrities and public figures, such as actors, comedians, sportspeople, and politicians, who play themselves.

Created by Larry David

Executive Producers Larry David & Jeff Garlin

Produced by HBO Entertainment

Curb Your Enthusiasm is available online at - https://bit.ly/2Fo38Un

Or to buy on DVD here - https://amzn.to/2qMcVcG

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3120falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/18-josh-howie-s-losing-it--16197394
Episode Six: The Cake.
Stand-up comic Josh and his wife comes to terms with the arrival of their first child.
Josh and Monique organise their son’s first birthday party. However Monique isn’t happy when she realizes Josh has only invited a certain group of people.

Written by

Josh Howie
Cast
Josh Howie
Pippa Evans
Dana Alexander
Gavin Forward
Judith Jacob
Ed Kear
Jo Romero


Written by Josh Howie. Produced Asley Blaker

Josh Howie's Losing It is available at - https://bbc.in/2JONno4

Josh Howie's website - https://bit.ly/2QugijC

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16197394Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:49:57 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Josh Howie's Losing It Series 2 Episode 6 Episode Six: The Cake. Stand-up comic Josh and his wife comes to terms with the arrival of their first child. Josh and Monique organise their son’s first birthday party. However...
Episode Six: The Cake.
Stand-up comic Josh and his wife comes to terms with the arrival of their first child.
Josh and Monique organise their son’s first birthday party. However Monique isn’t happy when she realizes Josh has only invited a certain group of people.

Written by

Josh Howie
Cast
Josh Howie
Pippa Evans
Dana Alexander
Gavin Forward
Judith Jacob
Ed Kear
Jo Romero


Written by Josh Howie. Produced Asley Blaker

Josh Howie's Losing It is available at - https://bbc.in/2JONno4

Josh Howie's website - https://bit.ly/2QugijC

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>2863falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/17-all-bar-luke--16132545
Luke Walsall missed the education boat, never got out of Cheveley, and spends his weekends as the hapless designated driver for his ungrateful friends. Sipping his Coke and chatting hyperactively, while they drink themselves into absurdity, Luke struggles, with excruciating awkwardness, to climb the macho pecking order.
Each episode of All Bar Luke covers the dying minutes of another nightmare evening for Luke. Whether he's trapped with the hen party from hell or pouring his heart out to a cab driver - only Luke's voice is picked out of the late night hubbub.

Angel Eye Media. Written by Tim Key. Produced Seb Barwell

All Bar Luke available on Tim Key's website - https://bit.ly/2OVHaMZ

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16132545Mon, 05 Nov 2018 20:15:56 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - All Bar Luke Series 1 Episodes 1 & 2 Luke Walsall missed the education boat, never got out of Cheveley, and spends his weekends as the hapless designated driver for his ungrateful friends. Sipping his Coke and chatting...
Luke Walsall missed the education boat, never got out of Cheveley, and spends his weekends as the hapless designated driver for his ungrateful friends. Sipping his Coke and chatting hyperactively, while they drink themselves into absurdity, Luke struggles, with excruciating awkwardness, to climb the macho pecking order.
Each episode of All Bar Luke covers the dying minutes of another nightmare evening for Luke. Whether he's trapped with the hen party from hell or pouring his heart out to a cab driver - only Luke's voice is picked out of the late night hubbub.

Angel Eye Media. Written by Tim Key. Produced Seb Barwell

All Bar Luke available on Tim Key's website - https://bit.ly/2OVHaMZ

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3606falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/16-dad-s-army--16076493
In World War II, with a German invasion looming, the defence of Walmington-on-Sea rests in the hands of the local bank manager and a motley collection of volunteers in the Home Guard unit. Despite being woefully ill-equipped, the rag-tag crew is ready to take on invading troops from across the Channel.

In this episode, After hearing of the formation of the Home Guard, George Mainwaring, a bank manager, takes it upon himself to form a platoon in Walmington-on-Sea.
He declares himself captain and names his chief clerk, Arthur Wilson, sergeant.

Dad's Army is available to buy on DVD from Amazon - https://amzn.to/1T7oIee

And available to download on iTunes - https://apple.co/2PdpETt

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16076493Mon, 29 Oct 2018 20:07:14 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Dad's Army Series 1 Episode 1 In World War II, with a German invasion looming, the defence of Walmington-on-Sea rests in the hands of the local bank manager and a motley collection of volunteers in the Home Guard unit. Despite...
In World War II, with a German invasion looming, the defence of Walmington-on-Sea rests in the hands of the local bank manager and a motley collection of volunteers in the Home Guard unit. Despite being woefully ill-equipped, the rag-tag crew is ready to take on invading troops from across the Channel.

In this episode, After hearing of the formation of the Home Guard, George Mainwaring, a bank manager, takes it upon himself to form a platoon in Walmington-on-Sea.
He declares himself captain and names his chief clerk, Arthur Wilson, sergeant.

Dad's Army is available to buy on DVD from Amazon - https://amzn.to/1T7oIee

And available to download on iTunes - https://apple.co/2PdpETt

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3459falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/15-bad-move--16020036
Steve and Nicky are both on their second marriages and have decided that moving to the countryside from Leeds is the perfect setting for them.
They've watched all the TV relocation shows and read the glossy lifestyle magazines and fell in love with the idea of 'getting away from the rat race'.
Unfortunately living a quiet existence in beautiful surroundings is a big disappointment and Steve and Nicky soon find living in the countryside might not be for them after all.
They discover that the house which they have bought is in a bad condition and they have great difficulty in having it renovated.
It is situated in what locals refer to as 'The Dip' - a place where internet signals cannot reach, but floodwater can.

Bad Move is available on The ITV Hub - https://bit.ly/2yDi4re

Series 1 is available on Amazon - https://amzn.to/2CIWWEb

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16020036Mon, 22 Oct 2018 09:20:52 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Bad Move Service 2 Episode 1 Steve and Nicky are both on their second marriages and have decided that moving to the countryside from Leeds is the perfect setting for them. They've watched all the TV relocation shows and read...
Steve and Nicky are both on their second marriages and have decided that moving to the countryside from Leeds is the perfect setting for them.
They've watched all the TV relocation shows and read the glossy lifestyle magazines and fell in love with the idea of 'getting away from the rat race'.
Unfortunately living a quiet existence in beautiful surroundings is a big disappointment and Steve and Nicky soon find living in the countryside might not be for them after all.
They discover that the house which they have bought is in a bad condition and they have great difficulty in having it renovated.
It is situated in what locals refer to as 'The Dip' - a place where internet signals cannot reach, but floodwater can.

Bad Move is available on The ITV Hub - https://bit.ly/2yDi4re

Series 1 is available on Amazon - https://amzn.to/2CIWWEb

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3442falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/14-ellie-anna-have-issues--15959874
Regular listeners of Ellie and Anna's Heart show will know that nothing's off limits - and now you'll be able to enjoy even more of our 30-something presenters' observations, struggles and musings from the last seven days. 

Dating, sex, to family matters, fashion disasters and those little things you notice and need to tell someone, Heart's very own dynamic duo don't hold back.

And now you won't have to wait until Sundays to get your E&A fix, Heart's new podcast lets you catch up with the girls whenever you want.
  
Whether you're commuting, tackling a Herculean pile of 'adulting', or just trying to drone out the sound of your colleagues, Ellie and Anna have got your back. 

Don't forget that each week's podcast will also feature new extra content that was simply too rude for radio... subscribe now and don't miss out.  

Heart Radio Network

Ellie & Anna Have Issues is available on line at https://bit.ly/2Pll0jb

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15959874Mon, 15 Oct 2018 08:55:51 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we review - Ellie & Anna Have Issues Episode 7 Regular listeners of Ellie and Anna's Heart show will know that nothing's off limits - and now you'll be able to enjoy even more of our 30-something presenters' observations, struggles and...
Regular listeners of Ellie and Anna's Heart show will know that nothing's off limits - and now you'll be able to enjoy even more of our 30-something presenters' observations, struggles and musings from the last seven days. 

Dating, sex, to family matters, fashion disasters and those little things you notice and need to tell someone, Heart's very own dynamic duo don't hold back.

And now you won't have to wait until Sundays to get your E&A fix, Heart's new podcast lets you catch up with the girls whenever you want.
  
Whether you're commuting, tackling a Herculean pile of 'adulting', or just trying to drone out the sound of your colleagues, Ellie and Anna have got your back. 

Don't forget that each week's podcast will also feature new extra content that was simply too rude for radio... subscribe now and don't miss out.  

Heart Radio Network

Ellie & Anna Have Issues is available on line at https://bit.ly/2Pll0jb

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3442falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/13-quacks--15906540
Quacks is set in the 1840s, when medical science as we know it was still in its infancy, when doctors were just as likely to kill their patients as cure them, when they experimented on themselves and each other. The show explores an era of surgery when the operating theatre was just that: a theatre, full of spectacle and showmanship, where people would come to watch revolutionary procedures, or a surgeon try to beat his amputation speed record.

It stars Mathew Baynton as a fledgling psychiatrist, Rory Kinnear as an arrogant showman surgeon, Tom Basden as a hedonistic dentist turned anesthetist, Lydia Leonard as a headstrong social campaigner and Rupert Everett plays the head doctor.

Writer
James Wood
Director
Andy de Emmony
Producers
Imogen Cooper, Justin Davies, James Wood, Rachel Hillman and Ben Worsfield

BBC / Lucky Giant

Quacks is available on line at https://amzn.to/2DUzHIK

And available to buy on DVD here https://amzn.to/2DZ4WT8

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15906540Mon, 08 Oct 2018 19:06:59 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Quacks Series 1 Episode 1 Quacks is set in the 1840s, when medical science as we know it was still in its infancy, when doctors were just as likely to kill their patients as cure them, when they experimented on themselves and each...
Quacks is set in the 1840s, when medical science as we know it was still in its infancy, when doctors were just as likely to kill their patients as cure them, when they experimented on themselves and each other. The show explores an era of surgery when the operating theatre was just that: a theatre, full of spectacle and showmanship, where people would come to watch revolutionary procedures, or a surgeon try to beat his amputation speed record.

It stars Mathew Baynton as a fledgling psychiatrist, Rory Kinnear as an arrogant showman surgeon, Tom Basden as a hedonistic dentist turned anesthetist, Lydia Leonard as a headstrong social campaigner and Rupert Everett plays the head doctor.

Writer
James Wood
Director
Andy de Emmony
Producers
Imogen Cooper, Justin Davies, James Wood, Rachel Hillman and Ben Worsfield

BBC / Lucky Giant

Quacks is available on line at https://amzn.to/2DUzHIK

And available to buy on DVD here https://amzn.to/2DZ4WT8

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3118falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/12-total-eclipse-of-descartes--15849124
One of Britain's finest comedians, Rob Newman, sets his sights on the world of philosophy, unpicking 3000 years of good and bad ideas to discover how we got into this mess. In a world gone mad, can philosophy provide the answer? 

In episode three, Rob navigates the wonders and pitfalls of genetics and internationalism.
Written and performed by Rob Newman

Edited by John Whitehall
Produced by Jon Harvey
Executive Producer: Richard Wilson
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4

Total eclipse of Descartes is available on the BBC website https://bbc.in/2OTK2Wv

Rob Newman tour dates are available on his website https://bit.ly/2N9nI9w

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15849124Mon, 01 Oct 2018 19:31:48 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Total Eclipse Of Descartes Series 1 Episode 3 One of Britain's finest comedians, Rob Newman, sets his sights on the world of philosophy, unpicking 3000 years of good and bad ideas to discover how we got into this mess. In a world gone...
One of Britain's finest comedians, Rob Newman, sets his sights on the world of philosophy, unpicking 3000 years of good and bad ideas to discover how we got into this mess. In a world gone mad, can philosophy provide the answer? 

In episode three, Rob navigates the wonders and pitfalls of genetics and internationalism.
Written and performed by Rob Newman

Edited by John Whitehall
Produced by Jon Harvey
Executive Producer: Richard Wilson
A Hat Trick production for BBC Radio 4

Total eclipse of Descartes is available on the BBC website https://bbc.in/2OTK2Wv

Rob Newman tour dates are available on his website https://bit.ly/2N9nI9w

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3237falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/11-who-is-america--15797065
Who Is America? is a half-hour series from comedian Sacha Baron Cohen, in his return to series television for the first time in more than a decade. In the works over the past year, the seven-episode series explores the diverse individuals who populate the United States, and features Baron Cohen experimenting in the playground of 2018 America.

Four By Two Television / Spelthorne Community Television

Who Is America? is available on The All4 website https://bit.ly/2QbcuUU

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15797065Mon, 24 Sep 2018 20:13:52 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Who Is America? Series 1 Episode 7 Who Is America? is a half-hour series from comedian Sacha Baron Cohen, in his return to series television for the first time in more than a decade. In the works over the past year, the seven-episode...
Who Is America? is a half-hour series from comedian Sacha Baron Cohen, in his return to series television for the first time in more than a decade. In the works over the past year, the seven-episode series explores the diverse individuals who populate the United States, and features Baron Cohen experimenting in the playground of 2018 America.

Four By Two Television / Spelthorne Community Television

Who Is America? is available on The All4 website https://bit.ly/2QbcuUU

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

Get in touch - we're @ComedySlab on Twitter and ComedySlab on Facebook.]]>3232falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10-sarah-kendall-australian-trilogy--15739652
Part 3: Seventy-Five Years.
Multi-award winning storyteller Sarah Kendal returns with more hilarious, gripping and moving stories. This second volume of Sarah Kendall's Australian Trilogy, is one show in three parts. A collection of seemingly unconnected stories and memories, which, together, form a meditation on luck, survival and hindsight.
Scrolling backwards and forwards in time to different moments in her life, over the three parts Sarah creates an intricate montage, demonstrating the interconnectedness of life.
In this final part, Sarah tells of he grandparents lives, past and present. Stabbings, alien abductions and dementia wards.
We find out why Halley's Comet meant so much to Sarah's dad and we conclude with a story about an astronaut's final trip.
Written by Sarah Kendall & Carl Cooper Performed by Sarah Kendall
Producer - Carl Cooper
A BBC Studios production

Sarah Kendal: Australian Trilogy is available on The BBC's website https://bbc.in/2OfNpH2

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15739652Mon, 17 Sep 2018 19:58:54 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Sarah Kendall: Australian Trilogy Series 2 Episode 3 Part 3: Seventy-Five Years. Multi-award winning storyteller Sarah Kendal returns with more hilarious, gripping and moving stories. This second volume of Sarah Kendall's Australian...
Part 3: Seventy-Five Years.
Multi-award winning storyteller Sarah Kendal returns with more hilarious, gripping and moving stories. This second volume of Sarah Kendall's Australian Trilogy, is one show in three parts. A collection of seemingly unconnected stories and memories, which, together, form a meditation on luck, survival and hindsight.
Scrolling backwards and forwards in time to different moments in her life, over the three parts Sarah creates an intricate montage, demonstrating the interconnectedness of life.
In this final part, Sarah tells of he grandparents lives, past and present. Stabbings, alien abductions and dementia wards.
We find out why Halley's Comet meant so much to Sarah's dad and we conclude with a story about an astronaut's final trip.
Written by Sarah Kendall & Carl Cooper Performed by Sarah Kendall
Producer - Carl Cooper
A BBC Studios production

Sarah Kendal: Australian Trilogy is available on The BBC's website https://bbc.in/2OfNpH2

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, Spotify and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>2825falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/9-hang-ups--15683454
After the collapse of his previous group therapy practice, Richard is no longer able to conduct the traditional 50-minute sessions most therapists have with their patients. Instead, he's developed a new form of therapy - weekly quick-fire sessions with his patients which take place online, through a webcam.
The few patients on his list present a hilarious and outrageous catalogue of neuroses, phobias, issues, anxieties and psychopathies, but even these short sessions, where he's confronted by everything from the sublime to the ridiculous, are not his greatest challenge.
His patience and temperament are stretched to their limit by the daily interruptions of a demanding extended family, errant teenagers and his own trouble-filled past.

Starring Stephen Mangan
Written by Stephen Mangan, Louise Delamere, Robert Delamere, Neil & Rob Gibbons
Produced by Louise Delamere
A Slam Films Production.

Hang Ups is available on Channel 4's website - All4 https://bit.ly/2M7leYM

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15683454Mon, 10 Sep 2018 15:29:05 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Hang Ups Series 1 Episode 2 After the collapse of his previous group therapy practice, Richard is no longer able to conduct the traditional 50-minute sessions most therapists have with their patients. Instead, he's developed a new form...
After the collapse of his previous group therapy practice, Richard is no longer able to conduct the traditional 50-minute sessions most therapists have with their patients. Instead, he's developed a new form of therapy - weekly quick-fire sessions with his patients which take place online, through a webcam.
The few patients on his list present a hilarious and outrageous catalogue of neuroses, phobias, issues, anxieties and psychopathies, but even these short sessions, where he's confronted by everything from the sublime to the ridiculous, are not his greatest challenge.
His patience and temperament are stretched to their limit by the daily interruptions of a demanding extended family, errant teenagers and his own trouble-filled past.

Starring Stephen Mangan
Written by Stephen Mangan, Louise Delamere, Robert Delamere, Neil & Rob Gibbons
Produced by Louise Delamere
A Slam Films Production.

Hang Ups is available on Channel 4's website - All4 https://bit.ly/2M7leYM

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>2733truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/8-jake-yapp-s-media-circus--15630741
Jake Yapp applies his sharp satirical eye to the modern media, exploring its strengths, weaknesses and idiosyncrasies through stand-up, sketch and music.
Episode 4 - Social Media
Jake turns his focus to Social Media and makes an argument as to why you should delete your accounts and throw your laptops out of the window. 
Written, performed and composed by Jake Yapp 
Starring George Fouracres and Emily Lloyd-Saini
Additional material by Robin Morgan 
Produced by Joe Nunnery 
A BBC Studios Production.

Jake Yapp's Media Circus is available on the BBC iPlayer https://bbc.in/2LLybHz

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15630741Mon, 03 Sep 2018 12:19:10 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Jake Yapp's Media Circus Series 1 Episode 4 Jake Yapp applies his sharp satirical eye to the modern media, exploring its strengths, weaknesses and idiosyncrasies through stand-up, sketch and music. Episode 4 - Social Media Jake turns...
Jake Yapp applies his sharp satirical eye to the modern media, exploring its strengths, weaknesses and idiosyncrasies through stand-up, sketch and music.
Episode 4 - Social Media
Jake turns his focus to Social Media and makes an argument as to why you should delete your accounts and throw your laptops out of the window. 
Written, performed and composed by Jake Yapp 
Starring George Fouracres and Emily Lloyd-Saini
Additional material by Robin Morgan 
Produced by Joe Nunnery 
A BBC Studios Production.

Jake Yapp's Media Circus is available on the BBC iPlayer https://bbc.in/2LLybHz

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>2707falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/7-stath-lets-flats--15573664
Stath Lest Flats is a brand new E4 sitcom, written by and starring one of the UK's leading young character comedians, Jamie Demetriou (Fleabag, Paddington) - described by the Independent as 'a Steve Coogan in the making.'
Main character Stath is a chaotic but well-meaning lettings agent, working for his Greek-Cypriot father in North London.
Across the series, Stath tries to prove himself a worthy heir to the family business, 'Michael and Eagle', despite his epic incompetence and divisive personality.
Against the backdrop of London's property market, Stath is a highly original workplace comedy with family at its heart, which offers a unique glimpse of Greek-Cypriot life in the city.
The series is co-written by Robert Popper (Friday Night Dinner) and directed by Tom Kingsley, director of BAFTA nominated feature Black Pond.

Stath Lets Flats is available on All4 https://bit.ly/2MyCnQ6 and DVD.

The Comedy Slab Podcast with Adrian Lacey & Shane O'Connor is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter and @ComedySlab Facebook.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15573664Mon, 27 Aug 2018 19:24:07 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Stath Lets Flats Series 1 Episode 1 Stath Lest Flats is a brand new E4 sitcom, written by and starring one of the UK's leading young character comedians, Jamie Demetriou (Fleabag, Paddington) - described by the Independent as 'a Steve...
Stath Lest Flats is a brand new E4 sitcom, written by and starring one of the UK's leading young character comedians, Jamie Demetriou (Fleabag, Paddington) - described by the Independent as 'a Steve Coogan in the making.'
Main character Stath is a chaotic but well-meaning lettings agent, working for his Greek-Cypriot father in North London.
Across the series, Stath tries to prove himself a worthy heir to the family business, 'Michael and Eagle', despite his epic incompetence and divisive personality.
Against the backdrop of London's property market, Stath is a highly original workplace comedy with family at its heart, which offers a unique glimpse of Greek-Cypriot life in the city.
The series is co-written by Robert Popper (Friday Night Dinner) and directed by Tom Kingsley, director of BAFTA nominated feature Black Pond.

Stath Lets Flats is available on All4 https://bit.ly/2MyCnQ6 and DVD.

The Comedy Slab Podcast with Adrian Lacey & Shane O'Connor is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter and @ComedySlab Facebook.]]>2625falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/6-stewart-lee-s-comedy-vehicle--15529170
Created by and starring Stewart Lee and broadcast on BBC Two, it features stand-up comedy and sketches united by a theme for each episode. It was script-edited by Chris Morris and was initially executive-produced by Armando Iannucci.
The BBC declined to make any further series due primarily to cuts to BBC 2's comedy budget which would focus on scripted comedy.
The main body of the show is a Stewart Lee stand-up comedy performance, recorded live at the Mildmay Club in Stoke Newington with a club audience. Usually two episodes of the show were recorded per evening. Each episode has a theme, around which Lee performs his material.
A recurring element of the show is the "hostile interrogator", played by Armando Iannucci for the first two series and by Chris Morris from Series 3 onwards. In a darkened room, the interrogator quizzes Lee about his approach to stand-up comedy and his attitudes toward his audience and the comedy industry.

Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle is available on the BBC iPlayer https://bbc.in/2MqvTCU

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15529170Mon, 20 Aug 2018 15:55:33 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle Series 2 Episode 4 Created by and starring Stewart Lee and broadcast on BBC Two, it features stand-up comedy and sketches united by a theme for each episode. It was script-edited by Chris Morris and was...
Created by and starring Stewart Lee and broadcast on BBC Two, it features stand-up comedy and sketches united by a theme for each episode. It was script-edited by Chris Morris and was initially executive-produced by Armando Iannucci.
The BBC declined to make any further series due primarily to cuts to BBC 2's comedy budget which would focus on scripted comedy.
The main body of the show is a Stewart Lee stand-up comedy performance, recorded live at the Mildmay Club in Stoke Newington with a club audience. Usually two episodes of the show were recorded per evening. Each episode has a theme, around which Lee performs his material.
A recurring element of the show is the "hostile interrogator", played by Armando Iannucci for the first two series and by Chris Morris from Series 3 onwards. In a darkened room, the interrogator quizzes Lee about his approach to stand-up comedy and his attitudes toward his audience and the comedy industry.

Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle is available on the BBC iPlayer https://bbc.in/2MqvTCU

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>2430falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/5-silicon-valley--15481483
Partially inspired by co-creator Mike Judge's experiences as a Silicon Valley engineer in the 1980s, this comedy series follows the misadventures of introverted computer programmer Richard and his brainy friends as they attempt to strike it rich in a high-tech gold rush. They live together in a Bay Area startup incubator loosely run by self-satisfied dot-com millionaire Erlich Bachman, who lets them stay in his house rent-free in exchange for a stake in the projects they invent there. But when Richard develops a powerful search algorithm at his day job, he finds himself caught in the middle of a bidding war between his boss, whose firm offers Richard an eight-figure buyout and a deep-pocketed venture capitalist.

Silicon Valley is available Amazon Video https://amzn.to/2KELjOa

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15481483Mon, 13 Aug 2018 13:33:32 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Silicon Valley Series 2 Episode 1. Partially inspired by co-creator Mike Judge's experiences as a Silicon Valley engineer in the 1980s, this comedy series follows the misadventures of introverted computer programmer Richard and his...
Partially inspired by co-creator Mike Judge's experiences as a Silicon Valley engineer in the 1980s, this comedy series follows the misadventures of introverted computer programmer Richard and his brainy friends as they attempt to strike it rich in a high-tech gold rush. They live together in a Bay Area startup incubator loosely run by self-satisfied dot-com millionaire Erlich Bachman, who lets them stay in his house rent-free in exchange for a stake in the projects they invent there. But when Richard develops a powerful search algorithm at his day job, he finds himself caught in the middle of a bidding war between his boss, whose firm offers Richard an eight-figure buyout and a deep-pocketed venture capitalist.

Silicon Valley is available Amazon Video https://amzn.to/2KELjOa

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>2364falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/4-dear-joan-jericha--15364622
Everywomen Joan Damry and Jericha Domain have between them worked in the fields of life coaching, female sexual health, psycho-genital counselling and sports journalism for the past 32 years. Joan has been married several times and has five children, while Jericha has been married for 30 years and has an only daughter, Cardinal. Joan recently turned her hand to erotic-romantic adult fiction, whilst Jericha has written 5 books on depression.

Dear Joan & Jericha is available on iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/dear-joan-and-jericha-julia-davis-and-vicki-pepperdine/id1376577916?mt=2

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15364622Mon, 06 Aug 2018 16:40:00 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we listen to the podcast Dear Joan & Jericha Episode 1. Everywomen Joan Damry and Jericha Domain have between them worked in the fields of life coaching, female sexual health, psycho-genital counselling and sports journalism for the past...
Everywomen Joan Damry and Jericha Domain have between them worked in the fields of life coaching, female sexual health, psycho-genital counselling and sports journalism for the past 32 years. Joan has been married several times and has five children, while Jericha has been married for 30 years and has an only daughter, Cardinal. Joan recently turned her hand to erotic-romantic adult fiction, whilst Jericha has written 5 books on depression.

Dear Joan & Jericha is available on iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/dear-joan-and-jericha-julia-davis-and-vicki-pepperdine/id1376577916?mt=2

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>2351falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/3-hold-the-sunset--15363252
Hold The Sunset is a romantic comedy starring John Cleese and Alison Steadman as widow and her old flame, whose rekindled romance is disrupted when her 50-year-old son moves back in. He announces that he's left his wife, his kids and his good job at the bank, and come home in an attempt to find his lost happiness again. And in a blink, to Edith's dismay and Phil's fury, all dreams are on hold.

Hold The Sunset is currently available on Google Play https://play.google.com/store/tv/show?id=aVbooccmMSNDaaKkU0vnIw&cdid=tvseason-yK9fYEvtQkI7MwzSMXYUYA&gdid=tvepisode-h2SaM277Ebw

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15363252Mon, 30 Jul 2018 12:51:04 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week - Hold The Sunset Season 1 Episode 3. Hold The Sunset is a romantic comedy starring John Cleese and Alison Steadman as widow and her old flame, whose rekindled romance is disrupted when her 50-year-old son moves back in. He announces that...
Hold The Sunset is a romantic comedy starring John Cleese and Alison Steadman as widow and her old flame, whose rekindled romance is disrupted when her 50-year-old son moves back in. He announces that he's left his wife, his kids and his good job at the bank, and come home in an attempt to find his lost happiness again. And in a blink, to Edith's dismay and Phil's fury, all dreams are on hold.

Hold The Sunset is currently available on Google Play https://play.google.com/store/tv/show?id=aVbooccmMSNDaaKkU0vnIw&cdid=tvseason-yK9fYEvtQkI7MwzSMXYUYA&gdid=tvepisode-h2SaM277Ebw

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>2297falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2-carnival-of-monsters--15312673
Writers' Guild Award winner and master character comedian Colin Hoult invites you to a truly original tragi-comic character show that will shock, tickle and appal.
Playing with environment, atmosphere and storytelling, the Carnival is an experience unlike any other you’ll find on radio.
Enter the Carnival of Monsters, a bizarre world of sketches, stories and characters, presented by the sinister Ringmaster and meet such monstrous yet strangely familiar oddities as Anna Mann - outrageous star of such forgotten silver screen hits such as Rogue Baker, Who's For Turkish Delight and A Bowl For My Bottom and Andy Parker - wannabe Hollywood screenwriter.

Some episodes of The Carnival Of Monsters are currently available on the BBC iPlayer and the Anna Mann podcast is available here: https://audioboom.com/channel/i-am-anna-mann
More from Colin Hoult here: https://www.colinhoult.net

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher,
iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15312673Mon, 23 Jul 2018 18:21:29 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week we chat about Colin Hoult's Carnival Of Monsters Season 2 Episode 4. Writers' Guild Award winner and master character comedian Colin Hoult invites you to a truly original tragi-comic character show that will shock, tickle and appal....
Writers' Guild Award winner and master character comedian Colin Hoult invites you to a truly original tragi-comic character show that will shock, tickle and appal.
Playing with environment, atmosphere and storytelling, the Carnival is an experience unlike any other you’ll find on radio.
Enter the Carnival of Monsters, a bizarre world of sketches, stories and characters, presented by the sinister Ringmaster and meet such monstrous yet strangely familiar oddities as Anna Mann - outrageous star of such forgotten silver screen hits such as Rogue Baker, Who's For Turkish Delight and A Bowl For My Bottom and Andy Parker - wannabe Hollywood screenwriter.

Some episodes of The Carnival Of Monsters are currently available on the BBC iPlayer and the Anna Mann podcast is available here: https://audioboom.com/channel/i-am-anna-mann
More from Colin Hoult here: https://www.colinhoult.net

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher,
iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>2178falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/1-veep--15267334
Veep is an American political satire comedy television series, starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
The series was created by Scottish writer Armando Iannucci as an adaptation of his British sitcom The Thick of It and is set in the office of Selina Meyer, a fictional vice president (and, later, president) of the United States.

Veep is currently available on Sky Atlantic via Sky and Now TV

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher,
iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15267334Mon, 16 Jul 2018 18:57:18 +0000Shane O'ConnorThis week the boys chat about Veep Season 1 Episode 1. Veep is an American political satire comedy television series, starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus. The series was created by Scottish writer Armando Iannucci as an adaptation of his British sitcom...
Veep is an American political satire comedy television series, starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
The series was created by Scottish writer Armando Iannucci as an adaptation of his British sitcom The Thick of It and is set in the office of Selina Meyer, a fictional vice president (and, later, president) of the United States.

Veep is currently available on Sky Atlantic via Sky and Now TV

Comedy Slab is available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher,
iHeart Radio and Youtube.

Subscribe for a new episode each Monday.

We're @ComedySlab on Twitter.]]>1848american,armando,british,chat,comedy,critique,ianucci,radio,review,series,sketch,standup,tv,uk,us,veepfalsefull